Bridge over Foša | Prostorne taktike

Within the contact zone of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and on the place of a previous wooden bridge “Bridge over Foša”, we’ve designed a new steel pedestrian bridge. Wanting it to be more than a mere crossing of the sea channel, the bridge was envisioned as a vibrant social hub, a destination in itself. The bridge has not asserted itself aggressively within the landscape but rather possesses a distinct character and identity, subtly referencing the city’s esteemed shipbuilding heritage and maritime spirit.

The bridge’s form is defined by a steel shell structure of variable cross-sections, taking the asymmetric shape of a hyperbolic paraboloid. The structure itself is remarkably slender, light, and visually refined. It was designed not to dominate the surrounding space and views, but rather to enhance and enrich them, adding a contemporary layer to the historical context. The interior of the bridge’s structural shell showcases a caisson system crafted from flat steel, a construction technique deeply rooted in shipbuilding. This design decision directly informs the bridge’s construction as a classic ship’s double bottom (a typical shipbuilding construction method). This deliberate choice resonates with the bridge’s location in a city that used to be globally recognized for its shipbuilding industry, where generations of residents have contributed to the local shipyard’s legacy.

The bridge’s exterior is finished with a three-component coating incorporating metal powder. This specialized treatment, under the influence of the elements, develops a Corten-like rust patina, aesthetically reminiscent of weathered steel, while simultaneously preserving the structural integrity of the bridge. Capitalizing on local expertise, the bridge was fabricated as a single unit in a nearby shipyard. This facilitated a streamlined transport and installation process; the entire bridge was transported by barge in a single day and positioned onto pre-prepared abutments at the location.

The pedestrian staircase is thoughtfully integrated along the line of the gentlest ascent on the bridge’s spatially curved form. The design of the treads ensures a comfortable and gradual slope, creating a smooth and pleasant transition for pedestrians. The walking surface of the bridge is differentiated to enhance comfort and functionality. Within the staircase area, a combination of rubber and fine-fraction stone as a baseline provides a firm, stable surface while preventing any undesirable flexing. Outside the staircase zone, a softer rubber surface is employed, prioritizing pedestrian comfort and ease of movement.

On the steeper sections of the bridge, informal seating areas are strategically placed to encourage spontaneous gatherings and interaction on the north side. Facing Fortin Park, the bridge structure features perforation incorporating a net. This creates a unique space for sitting, reclining, and playing, distinguishing the park area from the surrounding urban environment. This perforation not only visually lightens the overall structure but also establishes a visual dialogue between the areas above and below the bridge, fostering a sense of connection and recognition for users.

Project Info:

• Architects: Prostorne taktike
• Country: Trogir, Croatia
• Area: 237 m²
• Year: 2024
• Photographs: Darko Škrobonja, Dino Čaljkušić, Mihael Bažoka
• Manufacturers: FAR – Fabbrica Artigianale Reti, Innometal
• Lead Team: Antonia Cvitan Vuletić, Luka Cvitan,
• Design Team: Borna Penjak, Nemanja Šekularac
• Structural Engineer Bridge: Ivo Orlandini – Orlandini projekt d.o.o.
• Geodesy: Ante Tandara – KOTANGENS d.o.o.
• Electrical: Krešimir Ćurčić – Elektro Ćurčić d.o.o.
• Structural Engineers Foundations: Davorin Lovrenčić, Filip Šantatić – Ing-jet d.o.o.
• Lighting: Zoran Kovačić – LIGHTCOM
• Naval Architecture Consultant: Mate Vrdoljak

• Other Lighting Companies: ELOS d.o.o., RANDOM d.o.o.