Un Studio: Erasmus Bridge Rotterdam, the Netherlands

This book, the fourth in the 'Source Books in Architecture' series sponsored by Ohio State (Knowlton School of Architecture), is the best coverage to date of the stunning Erasmus Bridge project in Rotterdam. Largely the brainchild of gifted young architects Ben van Berkel and Caroline Bos, the Erasmus Bridge has now totally captivated the cityscape of Rotterdam, and has endeared itself to modern architecture aficionados everywhere. Personally, this is my favorite bridge of the twentieth century. This book is essentially a monograph, lavishly illustrated in color that details conceptualization, design fabrication, and assembly of this modern marvel. Extensive interviews with van Berkel enlighten readers to the inner workings of the process and creative considerations that went into the Erasmus Bridge. The book has many sectional and elevation views and hundreds of illuminating photographs to address details of construction in any level of detail that any reader might wish to see. The most interesting chapter in the book to me was on the design and assembly of the asymmetrical central pylon, although the bascule bridge and lighting chapters are also standouts. In particular, the calculations that went into the folding section of the bascule bridge, which actually leans toward Noordereiland when raised due to the unusual angular construction of the bridge, are stunning achievements in architectural design and engineering. The entire book is framed by the political, economic, and social impacts that the bridge has had on the people of Rotterdam, and the bridge as a stand alone work of art. I plan on a visit to Rotterdam next year to examine the amazing collection of modern architecture to be found there, of which the Erasmus Bridge is the surely crown jewel. Well done Ben van Berkel for building such a magnificent structure, and thank you Todd Gannon for bringing this valuable book to us.