ecological bridge connecting two shores of the Allegheny River
LIVING BRIDGE
6 mile island’s living bridge sits on the slow flowing Allegheny River. The living bridge is composed of individual tiles with varying degrees of density and directionality defining the program of the space within it.
The modular nature of the tiles allow for a smooth connection between each one, creating a simulated town rich with activity. Above the tiles are green roofs that recycle and store rain-water creating a ecofriendly way to sustain the self-contained greenery of the bridges. The islands are accessible during low tide, but during high tide transforms into monumental islands only able to be experienced while kayaking.
The modular nature of the tiles allow for a smooth connection between each one, creating a simulated town rich with activity. Above the tiles are green roofs that recycle and store rain-water creating a ecofriendly way to sustain the self-contained greenery of the bridges. The islands are accessible during low tide, but during high tide transforms into monumental islands only able to be experienced while kayaking.
architecturemateriality
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hybrid typologies
This form finding exercise uses geometries of various density and directionality as the base shape. Two bump maps are used to alter the properties of the shape. One for varying thicknesses, and the other for structural support. 2x2 tiles are setup to demonstrate spatial usage.
In the plan view, you can see how the persons movement is altered based on the input geometry. The higher density tiles slow down the flow, while the higher directionality tiles suggest more specific movement.
This form finding exercise uses geometries of various density and directionality as the base shape. Two bump maps are used to alter the properties of the shape. One for varying thicknesses, and the other for structural support. 2x2 tiles are setup to demonstrate spatial usage.
In the plan view, you can see how the persons movement is altered based on the input geometry. The higher density tiles slow down the flow, while the higher directionality tiles suggest more specific movement.
A series of sketching exercises are used to determine how each tile will connect with each other to form the various islands. In order to utilize the ebb and flow of the river, some islands will have a relationship with the river by occasionally being submerged, only to be accessed with kayaks or boats.
Ultimately three types of positionings were decided:
1. transport, which sits well above the river’s water line
2. docks, sitting right above the high tide to be accessed by water.
3. islands, occasionally submerged for a dynamic experience.
Ultimately three types of positionings were decided:
1. transport, which sits well above the river’s water line
2. docks, sitting right above the high tide to be accessed by water.
3. islands, occasionally submerged for a dynamic experience.
Samples of each tile configurations were modeled to show how individual types serve different purposes. The open plan allows direct and quick access, whereas the more segmented piece encourages people to wander and search through the spaces. The roof and base layers are seperated to illustrate how people might use the space within.
The internal water collection, storage, and distribution system that governs how the river town works is built into the pillars and changing thicknesses of the geometry. This allows a complex ecological system to be sustainable.