A landmark in large and small scale
Kalix Bridge
The Kalix Bridge, located in northern Sweden not far from the Finnish border, is of national interest and an important link on the E4 highway crossing the Kalix River. When the bridge was to be illuminated, the aim was to create an inviting gateway to the urban area.
Facts about the project
Client
The Swedish Transport Administration
Place
Kalix, Sweden
Status
Completed
Photographer
Måns Berg
Lighting design as an integral part of the construction
Kalix Bridge has become a landmark both in large and small scale, where design, details such as the beautiful arches of the bridge are highlighted. The overall design was developed early on, in collaboration between lighting designers, bridge architects, and landscape architects. To meet the high aesthetic and technical demands, there was close cooperation among several technical fields at Sweco. For Sweco’s lighting designers, it has been an exciting task, where lighting design has been an integrated part of the construction and its supporting principles, with a careful adaptation to the natural and cultural environment.
Preserving the magic of the river landscape
The municipality uses the meeting of the Kalix River and the Baltic Sea in its marketing, underpinning how strongly the city identifies with the river. This reminded Sweco’s architects and lighting designers about the importance of a lighting design that considers the surroundings. The goal became to create a subtle and captivating experience of the bridge without diminishing the magic of the river landscape.
Safety and environmental considerations
Space and identity-creating lighting contributes to an increased sense of safety on the bridge. Walking and cycling paths are connected from the main route to nearby areas for better mobility and integration between neighbourhoods. Environmental considerations have led to well-balanced lighting levels and shielded fixtures that reduce light pollution and stray light.
Winner of the Swedish Lighting Prize
Kalix Bridge won the Swedish Lighting Prize in the category of Exterior Lighting Design in 2024.
