Vertical Pedestrian Walkway in Spain

With the Halo project, Noarq, AM2 Arquitectos and the engineering firm Arenas Y Asociados have created a spectacular urban infrastructure in the Spanish city of Vigo. The steel and concrete structure is a kind of hybrid between a lift and a circular pedestrian walkway. Its purpose is to improve the accessibility of the intermodal station and direct pedestrian flows. As part of the Vico Vertical urban development plan, it docks onto the roof of the station on the opposite side. To this end, the new passage overcomes a motorway that was previously an obstacle.

The circular structure rests on the roof of the station building. © João Morgado

The project is not only a practical piece of infrastructure, but also a three-dimensional white sculpture floating above the city. The architects describe it as a combination of technology, architecture and art. As such, it also serves as a landmark for the city and the region. The pedestrian passage consists of two semi-circular walkways. The resulting ring rests on the roof of the station and is supported on the other side of the motorway by a lift core that provides access to the new city level.

The passage offers both sheltered and open areas with panoramic views. © João Morgado

The two halves of the circle are designed differently: In the east, the pedestrian bridge is completely enclosed in translucent glass, while in the west it is partially open and connects to the opposite ring as a walkable roof area. The mixture of open and closed areas allows for impressive panoramic views, but also provides a degree of privacy for the neighbouring residential buildings. A white screen-printed glass has been used to set the building in scene at night. The massive trussed girders are then particularly striking, as is the glazed lift that takes users to the top.