Gerland-La Saulaie Foot and Cycle Bridge

Knight Architects took part in an international competition for a new mobility bridge over the Rhône and the M7 motorway in Lyon, connecting the Gerland district to the Oullins–La Saulaie area. This 274-m long suspension footbridge is designed for pedestrians, cyclists, and people with reduced mobility, offering a safe and accessible route that integrates seamlessly into the urban environment. Ramps on both banks respond to the surrounding context, with gentle slopes and separated lanes to ensure clear circulation and user comfort.

The design is informed by Lyon’s rich history of suspension bridges, reinterpreted through a contemporary architectural language that emphasises slenderness and transparency. Slender pylons support a high-quality precast concrete deck that appears to float across the Rhône, creating a light and permeable presence in the landscape. The bridge offers long views across the Rhône and surrounding districts, creating both a functional link and a landmark presence.

Materials and detailing were chosen for durability, low maintenance, and refined aesthetics. Light-coloured surfacing, concrete elements, and railings integrating lighting provide safety, accessibility, and visual continuity. Our solution demonstrates a sensitive balance between engineering performance, user experience, and landscape integration, proposing an elegant, inclusive, and contemporary crossing that responds thoughtfully to the urban and natural context of Lyon.