Bilbao City Break + How To Achieve More with Less

During a recent city break to Bilbao, in North Spain, it was not only the jaw dropping Guggenheim Museum which drew attention of JCA architect Rich Cater.

Heading east along the Nervión River bank footpath leads you to what can be described as a complete lesson in design. Functionality, elegance, simplicity and efficiency all combine in this wonderful footbridge to create another piece of magic in this wonderful city. Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the Campo Volantín Footbridge is a masterclass in urban infrastructure design, achieving more with less and doing it in the most stylish manner. Crossing the bridge creates a moment of wonder for any pedestrians lucky enough to make use of it. The bridge becomes so much more than a structure to cross the river, it becomes a landmark which creates a sense of place and local identity – and what a wonderful landmark it makes …… Lots of lessons to learn here!