The footbridge across the Rinža River serves as a highlight and focal point of the Gaj sports park area before the river enters the center of Kočevje. It spans in a long, elegant curve, passing over two existing supports and gently resting on the riverbanks. The width and slope of the bridge reflect its function as part of a bike path, giving it a light and slender appearance while preserving and enhancing the surrounding landscape.
The choice of materials and construction responds to the spatial and cultural context of the location. Simplicity is achieved through the local selection of materials and their vernacular use. The footbridge is made of wood, featuring two composite load-bearing arches constructed from laminated timber girders that also serve as railings. These are protected on both sides with textured wooden cladding.
The construction of the footbridge was remarkably cost-effective. This design approach and material use could serve as a model for bridging watercourses in similar contexts.

Credits
Architecture
Dans arhitekti; Maja Cvelbar, Miha Dešman, Eva Fišer Berlot, Vlatka Ljubanovic, Katarina Pirkmajer Dešman
Client
Municipality Kočevje
Year of completion
2024
Location
Kočevje, Slovenia
Photos
Miran Kambič