Lex van Delden Bridge

Lex van Delden Bridge
© Arjen Schmitz

LEX VAN DELDEN BRIDGE

Dok Architecten

ARCHITECTS
Dok Architecten

CONTRACTOR, CONSTRUCTION
Dura Vermeer

DESIGN TEAM
Liesbeth Van Der Pol, Johan Rombouts, Jan Jaap Roeten

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS
Royal Haskoning

ARCHITECT IN CHARGE
Liesbeth Van Der Pol

CONSTRUCTION
Royal Haskoning

YEAR
2013

LOCATION
Amsterdam, The Netherlands

CATAGORY
Square, Bridges

Text description provided by architect.

That is what architect Liesbeth van der Pol had in mind for the new ‘Lex van Deldenbrug’ bridge across the Boele Canal (Boelegracht), Amsterdam.

Lex van Delden Bridge
© Thijs Wolzak
Lex van Delden Bridge
© Arjen Schmitz

‘I have been inspired by the Torensluis bridge across the Singel,’ she says. ‘That bridge is magnificent, much more than just a bridge, it is a square.

I wanted to achieve something similar at the Zuidas District.’ The Lex van Delden Bridge not only connects the Boelelaan with the Gershwinplein but more-over the city centre to the suburb.

‘That is why it is not just a means to cross on foot or by bike, but also offers the opportunity to give a moment’s thought to all that is happening in the city.

Lex van Delden Bridge
© Arjen Schmitz
Lex van Delden Bridge
© Arjen Schmitz

To the Zuidas, that is ever-expanding, to the Boelelaan, which is much greener that people seem to realise, and to the water below you, which is flowing through all of Amsterdam.’

A bridge should not only be beautiful but also practical, according to Liesbeth van der Pol. ‘Soon, large numbers of cyclists will cross this bridge, particularly during peak hours. This makes safety very important.

The cycle path is, therefore, well-connected to the Boelelaan. Safety at night was also a consideration. 

Lex van Delden Bridge
© Thijs Wolzak
Lex van Delden Bridge
© Arjen Schmitz

The lighting, incorporated into the specially designed high edges of the bridge, is not only attractive, but also clear. ‘The led lights in the pavement also show the way. ‘It is a special place.

The bridge allows traffic to cross and at the same time it offers a stopping place, where one can comfortably sit down and have a good look around. Tables, chairs, and residents enjoying a glass of wine in the evening sun. That is the way I envisage this.‘

Lex van Delden Bridge
© Thijs Wolzak


Lex van Delden Bridge
Detail