Reusing Bridges for Local Communities

A study on aligning circular reuse practices for bridges with heritage values for local communities.

Master Thesis (2025)
Author(s)

K.J.M. Knubben (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)

Contributor(s)

W.L.E.C. Meijers – Mentor (TU Delft - Heritage & Architecture)

K. Mulder – Mentor (TU Delft - Building Design & Technology)

WJ Quist – Mentor (TU Delft - Heritage & Architecture)

Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment
More Info
expand_more
Publication Year
2025
Language
English
Graduation Date
23-06-2025
Awarding Institution
Delft University of Technology
Project
BAAD
Programme
Architecture, Urbanism and Building Sciences | Heritage & Architecture
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment
Reuse Rights

Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.

Abstract

Design: This project captures the outcome of a conceptual architectural exploration focused on the Papendrechtsebrug and the overlooked public potential of the space beneath it. Through a combination of spatial design, historical reflection, and direct dialogue with the local community, the project proposes a new identity for this infrastructural threshold.

Research: This research explores the theory and practice of bridge reuse through a literature review and the development of an analytical framework. The framework is created to evaluate reused bridges by identifying main drivers and challenges, categorized into technical, operational, and communal dimensions. To complement this theoretical approach, a qualitative case study of the Papendrechtsebrug is conducted, involving interviews with local residents. These interviews identify three additional drivers and challenges that compliment current practices in the reuse of bridges. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing decision making in bridge reuse, offering valuable insights for integrating technical feasibility with community values in future projects.

Files

License info not available
License info not available
License info not available
License info not available