Re:Bridge
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Re:Bridge is a full-scale, single-span pedestrian bridge that demonstrates the structural reuse of heterogeneous timber waste into a code-compliant load-bearing structural system. Measuring 3.5 meters in length with a span of 2.85 meters, the 198 kg structure sequesters approximately 358 kg CO₂eq by upcycling 330 planks of varying species, origins and dimensions recovered from a waste facility. Its ribbed morphology, ranging in depth from 40 to 180 mm, features a topology-optimised geometry where material placement is functionally graded, aligning high-density stock with zones of peak stress demand. This form results from a stock- and stress-informed computational workflow that negotiates between material availability and structural requirements.
Constructed via a hybrid vertical glue–nail lamination technique, the assembly utilises hardwood nails as distributed internal clamps to achieve structural continuity without industrial pressing, enabling the fabrication of variable cross-sections. The bridge surface finish is defined by an iterative robotic milling process, creating textures with variable stepovers optimised for both fabrication efficiency and aesthetic articulation. Full-scale static load testing confirmed the system’s elastic behaviour and compliance with Eurocode serviceability limits, validating that functionally graded reclaimed timber can achieve reliable structural performance.
PROJECT CREDITS
SDU CREATE, Led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Roberto Naboni - University of Southern Denmark
Concept and Scientific Development: Anja Kunic, Roberto Naboni
Computational Design Workflow: Anja Kunic, Davide Angeletti, Junaid Nabi, Roberto Naboni
Structural Engineering: Junaid Nabi
Fabrication and Construction: Davide Angeletti, Antonio Cristino
Robot Planning: Davide Angeletti, Anja Kunic
Material Processing & Digital Stock: Davide Angeletti, Giulia Stefanetti, Anja Kunic - with support of Ardeshir Talaei
Preliminary Design/Fabrication Studies: MSc CREATE/24´s tutors and students (Cecilia Rask, Christina Jensen, Kristian Hindse, Lucas Solberg, Nanna Larsen, Oscar Holm, Sara Sander, Thomas Korgaard)
Project Partners: Blue Phoenix (Reclaimed timber), BECK Fastening (Lignoloc nailing system)