PULSE CANOPY, CLYDEBANK

In 2006 Clydebank Re-built and West Dunbartonshire Council launched an architectural competition for the design of a new pedestrian bridge canopy crossing the Forth and Clyde Canal in Clydebank Town Centre. 

Within Clydebank’s important industrial history, a key landmark was the Dalmuir Light, which was located adjacent to the Singer Factory in Kilbowie and stood 35 feet high on the banks of the River Clyde. Topped by a red light which flashed at 6 second intervals, the Light served as an essential navigation tool, not only for ships traveling along the River, but also more generally for the people in the surrounding area of Clydebank.

The proposal builds upon this historic context, abstracted as a glowing red structure which pulses from smoldering crimson to bright scarlet on the same 6 second cycle. The design creates the glow effect from a series of frames and ribs housing led lights. The frames act as a canopy, with a glazed panel running underneath, to provide shelter. Also, where cuts are made, they operate literally as frames; framing key views to and from the sky, the canal and public space, and drawing upon and highlighting vistas in the area. Through the canopy’s frames, the users of the bridge will pause to appreciate these. The structure of the ribs is adapted at determined points to provide bench seating and shelving related to the openings. Not forgetting the original Dalmuir Light, the tower element will make sculptural reference by matching its height at exactly 35 feet. 

Location: Clydebank
Client: Clydebank Re-Built
Value: £500,000
Status: Competition