The Lombardsbrücke, separating Hamburg’s Inner and Outer Alster lakes, is both a functional structure and a historic, listed landmark. Our lighting concept enhances its architectural unity and historical significance while integrating modern technologies to create an atmospheric design that reimagines the bridge in a new light.
Our approach treats the Lombardsbrücke as a cohesive whole, where specific elements are highlighted. The luminaires emphasize the bridge’s horizontal lines, drawing attention to its structured edges and underlining architectural clarity. Atmospheric lighting along the balustrade and within the passages enhances depth and reinforces the bridge’s uniform character.
Vertical and horizontal accents
The pillars are illuminated vertically to accentuate their lines, supporting their prominence within the design. Simultaneously, the horizontal effect of the bridge is highlighted by softly directed light along the balustrade. Honeycomb louvers and careful positioning ensure the lighting remains glare-free, balancing the vertical and horizontal elements.
One of the particular challenges of this project was the listed status of the bridge and its proximity to the water. In order to avoid drilling holes and interfering with the historic substance, we developed specially designed supply profiles that were integrated unobtrusively along the bridge. These profiles not only house the luminaires, but also the technical equipment. Profiles running along the sides serve as holders for linear luminaires that accentuate the vault of the passageways with grazing light and emphasize the depth and connection of the waterway.
A key feature of the concept is the reconstruction of historic “gas lamps,” which create captivating water reflections, adding sparkle to the design. Restored sconces and candelabras illuminate the traffic routes and preserve the bridge’s historical authenticity. A lighting control system enables fine-tuning of light intensities and colors via an app, allowing adjustments for weathering and natural darkening of the sandstone. These parameters were carefully calibrated in collaboration with Hamburg’s lighting advisory board.
This project involved multiple challenges, including integrating technical infrastructure into steamboat waiting rooms, coordinating with numerous trades, and avoiding interventions in the listed structure. Precise reconstruction, guided by historical plans, ensured that these requirements were met without compromising the bridge’s heritage.
Our lighting concept for the Lombard Bridge combines historical sensitivity with state-of-the-art lighting technology. It highlights the architectural unity of the bridge, while at the same time emphasizing and showcasing individual elements. With the lighting concept, we want to present the Lombards Bridge in a new, radiant light and showcase it as an example of the successful combination of tradition and innovation in the field of lighting design.
