Rómulo Neto Arquitetos

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge 

Rómulo Neto Arquitetos

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

CONSTRUCTION
Mwt Metalworking Technologies

MANUFACTURERS
Mwt Metalworking Technologies, Pavidren, R6 Living

ENGINEERING
Eng. Pedro Grave

AREA
375 M²

YEAR
2024

LOCATION
Vagos, Aveiro, Portugal

CATEGORY
Installations & Structures, Pedestrian Bridge

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

Text description provided by architect.

The local government challenged us to design a new pedestrian and cycling crossing between the banks of Vagos and Sousa.

The old bridge, built on June 27, 1855, and closed in 1978, is currently in ruins and should be preserved as an integral part of the landscape and the historical memory of the site.

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

However, being aware that the ruins may eventually disappear over time, the main challenge was to design a "museum bridge" that would enhance the existing structure, while simultaneously having its own identity and being capable of enduring and functioning autonomously in the future.

After analyzing and studying the possible solutions for the location, we identified that a crossing with a curve and counter-curve would be the ideal option, as it would allow continuous visual interaction with the ruin along the route.

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

The new bridge was conceived as a true "museum bridge," providing a unique experience: the view of the ruin is permanent while it still exists, and it can be appreciated both during the crossing and directly below the new structure.

We chose a clean design approach, using materials with colors and textures that complement the surrounding environment, such as corten steel and wood.

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

The organic nature of the shape was a key element in minimizing the visual impact of the structure on the landscape, ensuring that the new bridge harmoniously integrates into the natural environment, even in the future absence of the ruin.

Given that the project’s budget could not exceed €180,000 + VAT, we had to find solutions that were both functional and economical.

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

Thus, the construction method was designed to optimize resources: the bridge was designed in five parts, with each segment not exceeding 14 meters in length.

This approach eliminated the need for special transportation, reduced logistical costs, and allowed for an agile and efficient assembly on-site.

Furthermore, the scale was carefully adjusted to the program, ensuring a minimum width of 2.50 meters to accommodate both the cycling track and pedestrian traffic.

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

At the transitions of the bridge ramps, leisure spaces with flat areas were created, where benches were installed.

These spaces provide resting points, fishing spots, and the opportunity to enjoy the view, making the crossing not only functional but also a place for socializing and contemplation.

The volume of the bridge appears subtly, without interfering with the surrounding landscape.

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio

The structure’s placement evokes the undulations and curves characteristic of the marine environment, strategically positioning itself to visually integrate with the existing ruin.

However, the new bridge was designed to be independent, ensuring that its relevance and functionality remain intact even in the future absence of the ruin, perpetuating its value as an element of connection, experience, and design.

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio


Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio


Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
© Ivo Tavares Studio


Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Location
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Floor Plan


Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Concept
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Detail
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Detail
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Detail
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Detail


Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Sketch
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Sketch
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Sketch
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Sketch
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Sketch
Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge
Elevation

Rómulo Neto Arquitetos
T +351 234 194157 M +351 919 628298
Rómulo Neto Arquitetos
R. Bombeiros Volunteer, 28 1-U, 3840 436 Vagos, Aveiro, Portugal