Article source: DVVD

The long-awaited Villetaneuse Université interchange is now taking shape. Although this is a good thing in terms of urban development, it also exacerbates the division between north and south due to the ensuing concentration of networks and traffic lanes. Consequently, the footbridge serves a twofold role: access to the station and a link between neighbourhoods. It needs to play its part in the interchange at the same time as fulfilling its role as an urban connection between North and South, improving traffic flow. As an urban landmark, it must also create clarity for the town’s flagship spaces and buildings: the Town Hall, University, sailing centre, interchange, and so on.

Image Courtesy © EPA / PhGuignard 

• Architects: DVVD | Engineers Architects Designers
• Project: Footbridge Over the Railways
• Location: Villetaneuse, France
• Photography: Cyril Sancereau, EPA / PhGuignard
• Client: EPA Plaine de France
• Engineers: DVVD
• Length: 156 meters
• Steel weight: 450 tons
• Budget: 5 000 000 euros
• Construction work: 2010-2012
• PRIZE: 2013 A+ Awards winner, Architecture+Mobility category (two prizes: Jury and Popular Choice Awards)
• Software used: Robot – Bisco – Autocad – Revit Architecture – Studio Max – Adobe CS5.5