Bridge, Hasselt, 2020
Design & Build team: IEA in collaboration with Bot Architectuurcollectief and Jan Minne (landscape) as designers.
Herbosch-Kiere and CSM Group and Stendes engineering as contractors and stability engineers.

Impératrix Joséphine
In the centre of Hasselt, on the new Blue Boulevard, a special connecting and experience bridge will be built, guaranteeing pedestrians and cyclists a safe and moving crossing over the canal basin. The competition for this bridge is part of the urban renewal of the canal zone and crosses the new marina to land on the renewed promenades. The design for this bridge is based on the elaboration of the entire bridge structure out of only one universal and durable material: corten steel. Inspired by the Pont Neuf in Paris, this bridge works with a number of resting points or pleasant balconies that overlook the water and the surroundings in a romantic way. Resting and sitting areas where you can also just sit and watch the strollers and passers-by. The balconies can also be linked and used as a micro market place and small event spaces. The pergola structure carries a colourful landscape of historic strong-scented roses that climb up the bridge and give the bridge an intimate and special experience. The bridge is named after Emperor Napoleon's wife Josephine de Beauharnais, a historical grand lady who was fascinated by the collection and cultivation of various types of roses.