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Rappenloch Bridge . Dornbirn

· Dornbirn, Austria

A modern architectural solution replacing aging structures in the scenic landscape of Dornbirn.

A bridge crosses a deep gorge in a mountainous area, with trees and fields visible in the background.
Aerial view of the Rappenloch Bridge spanning a gorge, surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills.
aerial
A bridge crosses a deep gorge in a mountainous area, with trees and fields visible in the background.A cyclist on the Rappenloch Bridge, a prestressed concrete bridge spanning a gorge in a mountainous area, with dense trees and hills in the background.Rappenloch Bridge with a vehicle on it, surrounded by trees and hills.Close-up of the concrete edge of Rappenloch Bridge with greenery in the background.A motorcycle on a concrete bridge with trees in the background.Close-up of a concrete element of the Rappenloch Bridge with a sloped design, surrounded by greenery.Underside view of a concrete bridge with a clear blue sky and trees visible in the background.People observing the Rappenloch Bridge from a wooden walkway, with trees and vegetation in the foreground.Underside view of a concrete bridge with trees visible in the foreground.A close-up view of the Rappenloch Bridge showing its concrete surface and the surrounding rocky landscape.A concrete bridge with an arch design over a rocky area, with trees in the background and sunlight peeking through the structure.A view of the Rappenloch Bridge from below, highlighting its concrete structure and surrounding greenery.A view of the Rappenloch Bridge from below, showcasing its concrete structure and a rocky ledge with trees.Rappenloch Bridge viewed from below, showing its concrete structure above rocky cliffs.Rappenloch Bridge over a gorge with rocky cliffs and a river below.Rappenloch Bridge seen from below, with rocky cliffs and trees surrounding the gorge.View of Rappenloch Bridge from below, highlighting the concrete arch and surrounding rocky terrain.A cyclist on a concrete bridge with mountains and forests in the background.Aerial perspective of a modern concrete bridge over a gorge, with a vehicle on it and dense foliage nearby.

Architects

Location

Rappenloch Bridge . Dornbirn

A modern architectural solution replacing aging structures in the scenic landscape of Dornbirn.

Southeast of Dornbirn, a narrow, ten-kilometer-long mountain road winds through roughly hewn rock tunnels, over stone bridges, and galleries. This road climbs approximately 500 meters in altitude to the mountain village of Ebnit, situated at an elevation of 900 to 1,050 meters, and is the only access road that is passable year-round. However, heavy rain and rockfalls have taken a toll on this nearly 100-year-old road, necessitating continuous repairs to the road surface and bridges.

The Rappenloch Bridge is a response to the need for modern infrastructure in this rugged terrain. The new bridge replaces two severely damaged structures from the 1930s: two arch bridges and one slab bridge. Instead of opting for costly repairs, Marte.Marte Architects designed a single-track, prestressed concrete structure that seamlessly integrates with the landscape. The total length of the superstructure is about 66 meters, and due to the Dornbirner Ache running below, a free-span shoring technique was employed during construction, ensuring stability and safety.

Design Highlights

  • Innovative Use of Materials: The bridge is constructed from light exposed concrete, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and durability.

  • Sustainable Approach: By replacing the old structures rather than repairing them, the project promotes sustainable infrastructure development.

  • Integration with Landscape: The design respects the natural surroundings, maintaining the scenic views of the mountainous region.

Key Facts

Feature Details
Architect Marte.Marte Architects
Location Dornbirn, Austria
Structure Type Prestressed concrete bridge
Length 66 meters
Construction Method Free-span shoring

Programs

InfrastructureTransportation

Categories

ArchitectureBridge

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