Laheq Island Bridge: An Architectural Link Between the Mainland and Laheq Island
The Laheq Island Bridge is a key infrastructure within Laheq Island, part of the Red Sea Destination project. It connects the island to the mainland over 2.1 kilometers. The bridge links two distinct environments land and island allowing residents and visitors to move sustainably. It also supports the development of residential units, resorts, and other facilities. The design emphasizes a balance between architectural aesthetics and environmental sustainability.
Design Concept and Architectural Approach
The bridge is designed to provide a comprehensive infrastructure solution, ensuring efficient connectivity between the mainland and the island while addressing environmental challenges. More than a transit route, it extends the natural environment, blending with the island’s maritime landscape and creating a seamless interaction between nature and human construction.
The design prioritizes user experience and visual comfort. Lighting and architectural details are arranged to reduce the perception of distance while maintaining continuous visual connection with the surrounding seascape.
Materials and Construction Techniques
The bridge uses a structural system made of reinforced concrete with 316L stainless-steel reinforcement to ensure durability in marine environments. Its foundation rests on piles reaching 35 meters below the seabed. The deck spans 24 meters in width and includes six traffic lanes along with two lanes dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists.
Due to the marine nature of the site, materials were selected according to strict standards for resistance to corrosion, moisture, and salt exposure. This includes specialized protective layers in tidal and splash zones, as well as advanced coating and insulation systems that prevent chemical reactions. High-strength concrete and repair materials designed for harsh conditions further enhance long-term structural stability.
The bridge incorporates an advanced environmental system, featuring a 500 micron polyurethane waterproofing layer resistant to salinity. It also includes a smart drainage system that directs rainwater to 50,000-liter storage tanks for reuse.
The structure is engineered to withstand winds of up to 120 km/h and waves reaching 4 meters in height, reflecting its resilience in a dynamic marine environment. The bridge is illuminated by 1,200 energy efficient LED units providing 50 lux, supported by 8-meter-high lighting poles designed to reduce light pollution and improve nighttime visibility.
Integrated sound barriers reduce noise levels by 30%, enhancing user comfort. The accompanying image highlights the bridge’s integration with the island and nearby residential developments, emphasizing the visual interaction between architectural elements and the surrounding marine landscape.
Architectural Analysis
Laheq Island Bridge combines functionality with architectural innovation. It serves as both a land link and a visual element that enhances the natural landscape. The layout of pathways, column design, material choices, and attention to lighting reflect a balance of sustainability, durability, and aesthetics.
Emphasizing interaction with the marine environment reduces ecological impact and ensures the bridge remains an architectural and functional landmark, supporting long-term, sustainable, multipurpose use of the island.
Conclusion
The Laheq Island Bridge represents a significant step in transforming the island into a fully integrated residential and tourism environment, combining architectural beauty with essential functionality while maintaining environmental sustainability. The bridge is not merely a crossing; it is an architectural element that adds an urban dimension to the island, ensuring continuous and efficient connectivity between the mainland and the island.
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Comprehensive Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bridge Length | 2.1 kilometers |
| Purpose | Connecting the island to the mainland, supporting residential units, resorts, and diverse facilities |
| Design Concept | Harmony with the marine environment, integrated pathways for pedestrians and vehicles, balanced lighting |
| Materials | Corrosion resistant concrete, protective layers against saltwater and moisture, advanced coatings and insulation systems |
| Architectural Value | Combining functionality with aesthetics, enhancing visual connectivity, supporting environmental sustainability |
ArchUp: Technical Analysis of Lahej Island Bridge
This article provides a technical analysis of Lahej Island Bridge as a case study in sustainable marine bridge engineering. To enhance its archival value, we would like to present the following key technical and structural data:
The structural system utilizes reinforced concrete with 316L stainless steel reinforcement, featuring foundation piles extending 35 meters below the seabed. The bridge deck is 24 meters wide, comprising 6 traffic lanes with 2 dedicated pedestrian and bicycle paths.
The environmental protection system features 500-micron thick polyurethane insulation layers resistant to salinity, with an intelligent drainage system that diverts rainwater to 50,000-liter storage tanks for reuse. The bridge is designed to withstand wind speeds up to 120 km/h and wave heights of 4 meters.
In terms of visual performance, the lighting system uses 1,200 low-consumption LED units with 50 lux intensity, and 8-meter high lighting poles designed to minimize light pollution. The bridge achieves 30% noise reduction through integrated acoustic barriers.
Related Link: Please review this article for a comparison of sustainable marine bridge technologies:
Bridge Engineering in Marine Environments: From Design to Environmental Challenges
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