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PROJECT
SHADOW TRANSITIONS
with: Hannah von Pander, Elias Schreiner, Leonie Kratzner
The SHADOW TRANSITIONS project addresses the pressing issue of summer heat stress in urban environments- in this specific case at the pedestrian bridges in Neuperlach. These bridges, vital for ensuring safe and efficient mobility for pedestrians and cyclists, face reduced usage during hot summer months due to extreme thermal conditions.
The project aims not only to maintain the functional role of these bridges as physical connectors between different parts of the city but also to reimagine them as vibrant social hubs that encourage human interaction. In Neuperlach’s car-centric urban landscape, the bridges are repositioned as valuable assets by transforming them into comfortable and inviting public spaces.
To achieve this, a multifunctional and kinetic sun sail system was developed. The design adapts to various bridge configurations, adjusts to changing solar angles throughout the day or year, and supports diverse usage scenarios. The Jakobus Bridge was selected as the first prototype, turning it into a climatically comfortable and socially engaging space. Partnering with the organization ciné velo cité, the bridge was repurposed as a public cinema during the summer months. By showcasing the bridge’s new role as a venue for communal activities, the project demonstrates the potential of revitalizing urban infrastructure to foster social cohesion and enhance public spaces in Neuperlach.