Project Details
A Voronoi diagram is a pattern that subdivides a plane into regions partitionedby the distance of a given set of objects. Inspired by the cracking riverbed of the Basento river in Potenza, Italy, we propose a new cell-like community inhabiting an underused organic concrete world — a natural ‘web-like’ infill structure to the underside of the existing Musmeci bridge. Sympathetic to the original design by Italian engineer Sergio Musmeci, applying the Voronoi structural principles generates repeating uniformed modules, tessellating into efficient lightweight structural cells.
By efficiently designing homes within the underside organic structure of the historic Musmeci bridge, affordable dwelling spaces are constructed, for multiple user groups including; small families, local workforce, students of the nearby University of Basilicata and young professional graduates. The underbridge strategy utilises an existing bridge as primary hanging structure and the Voronoi cells with modular infill as secondary structure, supported by the existing organic concrete frame.
The cells are constructed of recycled aluminium frame and panels, cladded with local sustainably sourced cross-laminated timber. The dwelling spaces are separated into four blocks, containing multiple 1 & 2 bedroom dwellings with living areas and bathrooms.
Kitchen, dining and laundry are in shared communal zones that also functions as co-living and gathering spaces.
At three key intersect points along the bridge, access and egress to the local riverbed and park is possible for recreation and agriculture in nature. The existing concrete ribbon form that weaves under the under bridge is reinforced to take additional loads and serves as an undulating pedestrian walkway, inviting chance encounters.
The concept reference of the Voronoi pattern expands beyond the under bridged welling into the landscaped riverbed park. Utilising the flood plain for food growth and leisure, rehousing an existing skateboarding community, converting neglected plots into allotments, and introducing an amphitheatre for social gatherings. Further preventive flooding measures are employed to reinforce flood fences along the Basento River.
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