Tree Bridge | Charles Norbury, Will Kendall and Andrew Novak

The ‘Tree Bridge’ is a pedestrian bridge that takes its inspiration from nature and the surrounding city of Melbourne. The form of the bridge is derived from the metaphorical planting of two gothic inspired trees within the Yarra River, This acts as the primary structure for the bridge deck.

The bridge has multiple levels including a raised garden walk on the first floor, a skate park on the southern tree and an observation platform on the north tree. The bridge uses suspension as the main method of support. The deck has been designed as thin as possible utilizing a gridded I-beam structure hidden under the windscreen.

courtesy of Charles Norbury, Will Kendall and Andrew Novak

The choice of materials reflect a natural ‘earthy’ feel through use of corten steel, spotted gum deck and plywood as well as perforated steel mesh that allows ivy and other plant species to grow up. With the change of seasons the appearance and experience of the bridge would vary depending on the time of year you chose to explore.

courtesy of Charles Norbury, Will Kendall and Andrew Novak-plan

Project Credits:
Projects Name – Tree Bridge
Students : Charles Norbury, Will Kendall and Andrew Novak
Advisers : Jonathan Grove
School : Monash University, Melbourne, Australia

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