vaumm arkitektura: urban elevator

urban elevator’ by vaumm arkitektura, galtzaraborda, errenteria, spain images © aitor ortiz

spanish studio vaumm arkitektura has created ‘urbanization and urban elevator’, a lift intended to connect several neighborhoods located on the mountain slopes of errenteria. steep topography has caused irregular development of neighborhoods along the slopes, where barren voids separate residences of the higher elevations from the valley below. proximity to the community amenities was previously limited for inhabitants of the region. this structure promotes universal accessibility for all residents. the elevator and pedestrian bridge serves as a community connection point and observation structure for the distant mountains and nearby harbor of pasaia.

elevator at night

the walls at the base of the elevator are constructed of concrete and were formed using a sheet metal casing formwork. the fluted surface creates an raw urban character which responds to the industrial surroundings of the errenteria region. the elevator shaft is constructed with rigid steel panels which support a glass facade to maintain the lift’s transparent and light presence. the pedestrian bridge, an exposed triangular truss structure projects along an axis perpendicular to the mountainside.

elevator shaft

recessed lighting under the pedestrian bridge enhances the rippled effect of the sheet metal maintaining its textured appearance to visitors approaching the elevator from the valley below.

(left) entrance to elevator (right) detail

(left) pedestrian bridge (right) stairs leading to the elevator

on the bridge looking towards the elevator

on the bridge looking towards a neighborhood

elevator and pedestrian bridge in context

ramp approach to elevator

site plan

section

detail

diagram