Rod Laver Footbridge
As an overdue piece of pedestrian infrastructure connecting a major sporting venue and a growing suburb over a busy road and rail corridor, this project had to be designed as a cultural and events gateway, as well as be delivered quickly and safely.

Invited into the process late in the documentation phase, we elected to adopt and adapt the proposed structural solution to bring much more than the standard engineering response alone could offer.
Repetition of the ‘warren truss’ produces the same pattern as the sole of the Dunlop Volley tennis shoe. In this moment of critical observation, the footbridge takes form, linking both the history of railway structures and the culture of Australian tennis.
 
Info
Client:
QLD Govt. Department of Transport and Main Roads
Location:
Land of Turrbal and Jagera
Yeerongpilly
Size:
200 m²
Status:
completed
Quotes
An opportunity to enhance a predetermined engineering solution was championed by the Government Architects’ office in Qld with the striking, humorous and well executed solution delivering much more than anticipated for a non-existent budget.
State Jury Citation Australian Institute of Architects
The project marks not only a short-term road crossing challenge but also the front door for a major TOD site that will connect to the rail and local tennis centre amenity. The final product is a rare combination of iconic form derived from the humble sandshoe in a well detailed prefabricated form that has provided a genuine place making outcome with style and wit.
State Jury Citation Australian Institute of Architects
Cited
Awards:

2011 AIA Queensland Architecture Awards: State Award – Karl Langer Award for Urban Architecture: Yeerongpilly Bridge

2011 AIA Queensland Architecture Awards: Regional Commendation – Urban Architecture: Yeerongpilly Bridge

The project is imbued with the joy of a childhood spent with the rounded rubber features and vibrant colours of the Dunlop Volley tennis shoe. These details exist at a hyperscale, to both surprise and delight.