fuzhou forest walkway by LOOK architects offers access to nature

singapore-based firm LOOK architects has completed an elevated pedestrian walkway that weaves its way through a forested area of southeastern china. the ‘fuzhou forest walkway’, commonly known as ‘fudao’, is a steel pedestrian route that covers about 19 kilometers (12 miles) along its winding path. conceived as an urban connector, ‘fudao’ links two bodies of water, while providing public access to the hills outside of fuzhou’s city center. the walkway can be accessed via ten different entrances, which embed the network within the wider region.

all images courtesy of LOOK architects

the project forms part of a larger redevelopment of the area, which also saw numerous improvements to the region’s facilities. at xikezhan, an existing bus depot has been transformed into a visitor center, while a fish pond at meifeng hill park has been converted into a sprawling bio-retention lake. here, a weathering steel bridge above the water gives visitors the chance to come close to the edge of the lake. another entrance is situated at jinniushan indoor sports hall, where LOOK architects introduced a spiral ramp measuring 24 meters (79 feet) in diameter.

the design of the elevated walkway comprises six basic deck components that can be stitched together in various permutations. the project was conceived as a modular system capable of negotiating the undulating topography, while protecting the ecology of the site. the efficient design allows for a long span of 14.4 meters (42 feet) between supporting columns, minimizing the construction footprint. the use of a porous steel grating for the decks allows natural light to permeate the ground plane, encouraging low-lying plants to thrive.

the walkway has a consistent 1:16 gradient, which allows for barrier-free access along its entire length. this was an important consideration for public access, and ensured that the wheelchair accessible walkway could be enjoyed by people of all ages. conveniences such as rest areas, viewing decks, observation towers, and teahouses with washroom amenities have been interspersed throughout, adding variety and character to the venue as an eco-tourism destination.