Free Walker: A Sculptural Overpass Design

Breaking Stereotypes and Balancing Humanization and Artistry

What sets Free Walker apart is its unique structure that breaks stereotypes. At first glance, it appears to have only one pier supporting the overpass. However, the designers ingeniously utilize a mechanical structure to create a smart design. By incorporating the steel-frame structure of the elevator, the shape of the pavement, and the bike lanes, the three points become the perfect form for a bracing structure, ensuring stability and strength.

The realization of Free Walker involves using a reinforced concrete base for the bridge, with a steel frame structure. The exterior bridge body is made of steel plates sprayed with fluorocarbon paint, giving it a sleek and modern look. The dimensions of the design are as follows: Width 58000mm x Depth 3500mm x Height 8700mm.

Free Walker is not just a visually striking structure; it also offers practical functionality. The design includes pavement and bike lanes, providing a safe and convenient passage for pedestrians and riders alike. Additionally, an elevator is installed on one side of the overpass, catering to the needs of various individuals, including parents with strollers, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

The concept of Free Walker was developed in the LAFA Communal Facility Design Studio, starting in April 2017 and concluding in December 2017. The design will be brought to life in Taishan Road, Huanggu District, LN 24, Shenyang, China, in the first half of 2018. Extensive research was conducted to ensure that the design harmonizes with its surroundings. The narrow pedestrian street on one side and the large open ground on the other side were taken into consideration, resulting in a design that achieves the balance between humanization and artistry.

The Free Walker design faced its fair share of challenges. Initially, finding a balance between appearance and function proved to be a hurdle. However, through numerous sketches and discussions, the design team eventually arrived at a solution that achieved the desired effect.

Free Walker has already received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2018. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

Free Walker is not just an overpass; it is a work of art that seamlessly integrates with its environment. With its unique structure, practical features, and aesthetic appeal, Free Walker is set to become a landmark in Shenyang, China, and a testament to the innovative design capabilities of the Industrial Design College in LAFA.