A Sunken Bridge

The Dutch designers of RO&AD Architects have built a unique bridge that hardly comes out of the water itself. Their so-called Moses Bridge is sunken and offers access to the unique 17th century Fort de Roovere in the Netherlands.

Dutch forts are historically surrounded by a canal, preventing it from invading powers. In the south of the Netherlands a series of moats and fortresses were built during the 17th century in order to provide protection from invasion by France and Spain. As a part of the West Brabant Water Line Fort de Roovere was surrounded with a shallow moat that was too deep to march across, and too shallow for boats. Traditionally a drawbridge connects the fort with the outer world. In this case, however, the designers have chosen to create a less historical about more inspiring way to give the visitors access to the fort.

The water level is obviously constant at this place, preventing the bridge from flooding. However, a little storm might cause heavy waves and some wet feets here. Made from sustainable Accoya wood, the walls of the bridge hold the water back like a dam. Like Moses, the bridge parts the waters so that pedestrians may pass.

In general, landscape architecture deals more than ever with creating inspiring scenes while using the existing environmental context. Right that is what makes it a truly interesting and ever more modern spatial discipline. Specifically in crowded over-occupied areas using the existing tools is the best way to create enjoyable spaces.

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