Genoa’s incredible futuristic “floating bridge” nears completion

A stunning new minimalist “floating bridge” is in the final stages of construction in Italy, with the eye-catching feat of engineering due to improve connectivity in the Liguria region.

Following the collapse of the Morandi Bridge on 14 August 2018, a quick construction was needed to once again connect the sides. Designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop, the renovation sought to adapt Italian infrastructure in a modern and functional way.

Genoa Bridge Stafeno Goldberg — The bridge sits on 19 rounded columns © Renzo Piano Building Workshop / Stefano Goldberg

"The new bridge must be simple and straightforward, but not ordinary. It is going to look like a ship moored in the valley; a bright, clear steel bridge. During the day, it will reflect sunlight and absorb solar energy, and at night, it will return it. It will be a sober bridge, respecting the character of the Genoese," designer Renzo Piano said about the creation.

Not only does the new bridge over the Polcevera River represent a significant junction for road connections and transportation in the future of Genoa and Liguria, it has been designed to look beautiful and simple, and to appear to “float”. The bridge rests on 18 reinforced concrete circular piers designed with no sharp corners in an effort to mitigate visual impact and allow the structure to sit with its environment. The deck of the bridge is isolated from the piers to allow the bridge to breathe, without there being an impact on stability and strength.

Genoa Bridge — The bridge is kitted out with modern solar technology and cleaning robots © Renzo Piano Building Workshop

There is a protective barrier along both sides of the bridge, against falls and wind, designed in glass to allow for visibility. Photovoltaic panels that convert light into energy have been placed throughout the deck, which allows the bridge to produce power to operate lighting, sensors and systems both day and night. The maintenance and cleaning of the glass barrier and the photovoltaic system will be entrusted to robots, which are able to travel along the edge of the bridge via rails and drive wheels.

RPBW Architects also said that discussions are in place for a public park to be created in the future as a memorial to commemorate the 43 victims of the collapse of the Morandi Bridge.