A 110-meter-long timber footbridge doubles as a shelter over the pristine Soča river.
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The footbridge site lies between Tolmin and Most na Soči, with a degraded left embankment due to a sand plant, and green fields and the forested Bučenice hill on the right. Though bike and pedestrian trails run along both sides, the standout feature here is the Soča River itself, broad and vividly turquoise. Local utilitarian buildings inspired the design, valuing simplicity and local materials. Common elements include steep pitched roofs, solid timber structures, and stone foundations, seen in wood harvesting sheds, hayracks, and water barriers.
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The new 110 m timber footbridge over the Soča River acts as a shelter in the landscape, offering protection from sudden rain, snowstorms, or intense summer sun for both pedestrians and cyclists. Its steep, pitched timber roof curves over the river and rests on concrete pedestals at each bank, covering the path below. The roof peaks at the center, opening up stunning views of the river and inviting people to pause and enjoy the scenery.
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The experience of crossing is marked by contrasts, its delicate appearance from afar versus its solid feel inside, and the cool aluminum roof shingles against the warm wooden interior. More than just a crossing, the Soča footbridge is a place to reflect and connect with the river, no matter the weather.
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Information
Project brief: New 110 m footbridge over the Soča River
Source: Open Anonymous Architectural Competition
Location: Tolmin, Slovenia
Project date: 2018
Site area: 3.350 m²
Bridge area: 945 m²
Length: 110 m
Type: Public/Landscape
Client: Tolmin Municipality
Photography: Sebastjan Oblak
Competition Team
SVET VMES, d.o.o.
Authors: Jure Hrovat, Ana Kreč
Landscape architecture: Andreja Zapušek, Damjan Černe
Collaborators: Jakub Chojna
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