Polyhedral Structures Lab has created an innovative glass bridge that explores the potential of float glass to minimise energy demands in construction.

Tortuca is a 250kg bridge spanning 3.2 metres, constructed by the dry assembly of thirteen hollow glass units and designed with the need for only one person to assemble and disassemble the structure without heavy machinery.

The project explores the potential of using the extremely delicate material float glass for the load-bearing elements, in order to minimise material and energy demands currently present in construction.

It also highlights the capacity of employing the material in its purest form to simplify the recycling process after the life cycle of the structure has ended.

This project has been longlisted in the sustainable design category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

Designer: Polyhedral Structures Lab

Project: Tortuca