Pooley Bridge
ICON #13
Pooley Bridge
Pooley Bridge: A Masterpiece of Modern Design in a Classic Landscape
ICON #13
When Storm Desmond tore through the Lake District in 2015, it took with it more than just trees and topsoil. The surging waters of the River Eamont swept away Pooley Bridge, a beloved landmark that had connected the village to the wider world for over two centuries. The loss was deeply felt. This wasn't just a crossing; it was a symbol of history, a postcard image of the region, and a vital artery for the local community. But from the wreckage emerged a determination to rebuild, not just a replica, but a bridge for the future.
The reconstructed Pooley Bridge, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, redefines what it means to connect with the landscape. Located in in the UK’s Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s streamlined form, sculpted from endurable Outokumpu stainless steel, seems to float effortlessly across the water. This bridge is built to last, and a praise to the enduring strength of both nature and human imagination. As a result, the design is as resilient as it is elegant.
The new Pooley Bridge is a radical departure from its predecessor. The traditional stone arches are replaced by a sleek, ribbon-like structure that seems to float effortlessly across the River Eamont. This modern marvel is crafted from a high-strength, duplex stainless steel, a material chosen for its exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion
The bridge's slender form, made possible by the steel's strength, minimizes its visual impact on the surrounding landscape, allowing the natural beauty of the Lake District to take center stage. Thanks to its aesthetic appeal and resistance to corrosion, this bridge does not need painting. This, again, eliminates the environmental impact of maintenance and preserves its pristine appearance for generations to come.
The new Pooley Bridge is a radical departure from its predecessor. The traditional stone arches are replaced by a sleek, ribbon-like structure that seems to float effortlessly across the River Eamont. This modern marvel is crafted from a high-strength, duplex stainless steel, a material chosen for its exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion
The bridge's slender form, made possible by the steel's strength, minimizes its visual impact on the surrounding landscape, allowing the natural beauty of the Lake District to take center stage. Thanks to its aesthetic appeal and resistance to corrosion, this bridge does not need painting. This, again, eliminates the environmental impact of maintenance and preserves its pristine appearance for generations to come.
More than just a crossing, the Pooley Bridge is a symbol of renewal and a testament to the power of community. Its design, the culmination of extensive consultations with residents, reflects their desire for a structure that would not only stand the test of time but also enhance the beauty of their surroundings.
The bridge's stainless steel construction ensures its longevity, requiring minimal maintenance and offering exceptional resistance to the elements. This is truly a bridge built for the ages, a legacy for the people of the region and a testament to the enduring appeal of sustainable design.
With its elegant form and enduring presence, Pooley Bridge has become an icon not just of Cumbria but of innovative, community-focused infrastructure.
More than just a crossing, the Pooley Bridge is a symbol of renewal and a testament to the power of community. Its design, the culmination of extensive consultations with residents, reflects their desire for a structure that would not only stand the test of time but also enhance the beauty of their surroundings.
The bridge's stainless steel construction ensures its longevity, requiring minimal maintenance and offering exceptional resistance to the elements. This is truly a bridge built for the ages, a legacy for the people of the region and a testament to the enduring appeal of sustainable design.
With its elegant form and enduring presence, Pooley Bridge has become an icon not just of Cumbria but of innovative, community-focused infrastructure.
Icon
Pooley Bridge
Location
Lake District National Park, the UK
Year of construction
2020
Architect
Knight Architects
Material
Outokumpu's lean duplex grade of Forta LDX 2101
FORTAChallenge
Replace the old stone bridge that was swept away in a storm. Minimize the risk of future flooding, allow people to see the landscape clearly and include traditional stonework. And minimize the construction's impact on the river.
Solution
Slender stainless steel structure made of Outokumpu's lean duplex grade of Forta LDX 2101
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