Omar Harb

advisor

Phoenicia University

Lebanon

As an architect and founder of Omar Harb Architects & Associates, my work centers on creating… more

Kateřina Švrčulová
Brno University of Technology, Czech Republic
Category: Architecture

Concept & Vision:
The proposal offers a bold and imaginative response to the challenge of underutilized infrastructure, transforming “dead spots” beneath bridges into vibrant living environments. By targeting the space under a highway bridge in Sundsvall, Sweden, the project addresses both spatial efficiency and urban sustainability through modular, affordable housing.

Urban Strategy:
The idea of reclaiming infrastructure voids for residential use is innovative and socially compelling. It reframes redundant space as an asset, while placing much-needed housing in central and scenic locations — in this case, suspended above the water with panoramic views.

Architectural Expression:
The visual language of contrasting red lattices and white wooden facades offers a nod to Nordic vernacular architecture, while simultaneously delivering a contemporary modular aesthetic. The vertical and horizontal displacement of units adds visual rhythm and generates outdoor space for greenery and balconies.

Spatial Organization & Accessibility:
The inclusion of two types of modular units (single- and double-storey) with functional and compact floor plans is commendable. Public amenities like cafes and seating areas enhance the livability and sense of community. The glass elevator and external staircases ensure accessibility, while maintaining a light architectural footprint.

Technical Integration:
The use of a separate red steel lattice that wraps around the existing bridge piers without visually overwhelming them is carefully considered. By hanging the structure from the bridge deck and anchoring it independently, the proposal respects the integrity of the existing infrastructure. The use of CLT panels ensures sustainability, lightweight construction, and fire protection.

Structural Load & Bridge Dynamics:

Provide further detail on how the additional loads from the suspended housing will be distributed without compromising the structural performance or maintenance of the existing highway bridge.

Include seismic, vibration, and dynamic response analyses, particularly given the bridge's coastal and wind-exposed setting.

Noise and Air Quality Mitigation:

Being located directly beneath a highway bridge, residents may face issues with vehicle noise and airborne pollutants. Propose strategies such as acoustic insulation, green buffers, or mechanical ventilation systems with air purification.

Thermal Comfort & Climate Response:

Sundsvall has a cold climate, so expanded information about thermal performance, insulation strategies, and protection from water spray, snow, and freezing winds would be useful.

Explore passive solar strategies, particularly as some units face east and west.

Public Safety & Maintenance Access:

The project could benefit from a clearer maintenance plan: both for the housing modules and for access to the original bridge structure (e.g., inspections, repairs).

Evaluate emergency evacuation strategies, especially for units located above water or far from land-based access points.

Community Integration & Social Use:

Consider how the project interfaces with existing urban fabric and whether there are opportunities for shared community infrastructure at the base of the bridge (e.g., cultural spaces, workshops, co-living areas).

The inclusion of mixed-use programs beyond cafés—like co-working hubs or maker spaces—could expand the proposal’s urban impact.

Environmental Impact on Marine Ecosystem:

While reusing existing infrastructure is inherently sustainable, explore whether the shadowing or runoff from the structure might affect the marine ecosystem below.

Consider incorporating elements such as floating wetlands or water-filtering structures beneath the housing to mitigate negative ecological impact.

Visualizations & Technical Sections:

While the description is rich, the project would benefit from more detailed diagrams or exploded axonometric views showing construction layers, hanging systems, circulation paths, and service cores.

Cross-sections could clarify the vertical relationships between floors, structure, and environmental layers.

Conclusion
“Above Water Sundsvall” is a visionary and well-developed concept that reimagines under-bridge infrastructure as vibrant modular housing. With its sustainable materials, poetic references to Nordic design, and clever spatial organization, it demonstrates both architectural innovation and strong social purpose. Addressing technical performance and user comfort in more detail would elevate the project to a highly implementable and impactful proposal.