floating cycling bridge curves through pond in belgium adapting to water levels

BuroLandschap builds modular floating bridge

In a unique landscape shaped by decades of mining, BuroLandschap has designed a floating pontoon bridge that provides cyclists and pedestrians with an extraordinary crossing experience. Adapting to fluctuating water levels, the bridge brings users remarkably close to the water’s surface, offering dynamic, varied views.

Located on the border between Dilsen-Stokkem and Maasmechelen in Belgium, the bridge traverses a pond formed by gravel extraction, nestled between the remnants of mine spoils (terrils) from the 20th-century coal mining era. While the extraction of raw materials has long ceased, the mining history continues to define the area’s unique topography. Since the early 21st century, this transformed landscape has become a hub for relaxation and recreation, with cyclists and walkers at its heart.

all images by Pieter Rabijns

water bridge allows Cycling between Terrils

Studio BuroLandschap integrates the pontoon bridge into the landscape and physically connects the two mining spoils. Inspired by natural forms and the Fibonacci sequence (Golden Ratio), the bridge takes on a curved, organic shape rather than a straight connection across the water. This design choice slows the pace of cyclists and walkers, encouraging them to pause and enjoy a sequence of spectacular views, integrating the structure into its surroundings.

Spanning an impressive 400 meters, the bridge stands as the longest floating bicycle bridge in Belgium and a unique landmark. Its 30 hinged modular elements allow it to flexibly adapt to changing water levels, rising or falling by up to 130 centimeters. This combination of engineering and design creates a symbiotic relationship between the landscape, nature, and the site’s mining heritage.

located on the border of Dilsen-Stokkem and Maasmechelen, the bridge crosses a gravel-extraction pond

the bridge’s curved design is inspired by natural forms and the Fibonacci sequence

the floating pontoon bridge brings cyclists and walkers closer to nature’s surface

designed by BuroLandschap, the bridge adapts to the pond’s fluctuating water levels

unlike a straight path, the organic shape encourages visitors to slow down and take in the views

the bridge features 30 hinged modular elements, allowing it to move with changing water levels

rising or falling up to 130 centimeters, the bridge adapts to the environment effortlessly

BuroLandschap’s design connects the two mining spoils, celebrating Limburg’s heritage

project info:

name: Cycling between Terrils
architect: BuroLandschap | @burolandschap

location: Limburg, Belgium

engineer: Tractebel

contractor: HYE

client: LRM, Province of Limburg

photographer: Pieter Rabijns | @pieterrabijns

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom