Fossá Bridge in Vestmanna

Merging experiential and transport functions

The bridge over Fosså is a simple structure with various functions. Pedestrians can stop in the middle of the bridge and enjoy beautiful views over the stream, the cliff, the village, and the fjord. The viewing platform is a separate area, protected from car traffic by guardrails and an essential part of the bridge’s form. Facing nature are glass railings that protect the viewing platform from the wind. From below, in parts of the settlement, the bridge appears as a large sculpture in the landscape. Water volumes in the stream vary greatly, depending on rain and drought. Often, little water is in the stream, exposing much of the rock. 

Light solution using minimum concrete 

A light and elegant solution, the bridge is made of concrete, cast in situ, and designed to minimize the amount of concrete. It comprises triangular wedges, two on each side of the stream. Below are the foundation wedges and the bridge wedges above them. All four main elements, plus the viewing wedge, are fused with one material, concrete, into a cohesive form. The main parts of the bridge span from the foundation over the stream and meet in the middle. The geometry is symmetrical across the central axis, longitudinally and transversely, forming an arch that absorbs and distributes the pressure forces. The concrete surfaces bear witness to the formwork. On a scaffold-like construction of columns, boards were laid out across a stable system of longitudinal ties, all wood. Since the bridge's construction, all the formwork has been re-used in other projects.