Lilleakerbyen bridges

The future development of the Lilleakerbyen nature area is closely linked to the green river valley of the Lysaker River. Once a source of life for an area that was densely populated centuries ago, it will now serve as a source of strength for the vibrant community set to emerge. H+N+S states, “A good design for further urban development begins with a good design for the river: recognizing, securing, cleaning up where necessary, and expanding the natural river landscape where possible.”

As part of the urban development of the area, several new bridges are planned to better connect the region, serve as landmarks, and enhance the nature experience along the river. Each bridge requires its own identity, tailored to the environment to strengthen the area’s character.

NEXT designed the three Lilleakerbyen bridges with this mission in mind. The Neighborhood and Zigzag bridges not only provide access to the area but also serve as public spaces, destinations in their own right. They create connections: the first provides access for pedestrians, cyclists, and to a small extent, cars, while the latter is interwoven with the trees, offering sweeping views across the river, reminiscent of a Japanese garden bridge. Architecturally, the two bridges differ; similarities can be found in the details.

Constructed from granite blocks with a keystone in the center, the third bridge, the Arch bridge, almost becomes part of nature itself, offering expansive views of the natural beauty of the Fåbrofossen waterfall. The waterfall once again takes the spotlight in the environment. By allowing the new bridge to emerge in a natural curve from the pilgrim path on the Oslo side and to gracefully curve across the Lysaker River to the north of the waterfall, the waterfall is freed and can be experienced as an independent landscape element. In short, each bridge has its own signature, a unique expression tailored to the surroundings.