|
The Bridge
|
|
| Stepping Stones is the name of the bridge commissioned to form a link between Tyrebagger Wood and Elrick Hill. A series of steel platforms inset with granite are used like stepping stones to lead visitors towards Elrick Hill. Two of the platforms are bridges, and the largest is a seated platform reaching out to the pond’s edge. Simon thought the clearing was like an "island room" and wanted to encourage people to make use of the place, to sit, rest and talk. Benches are placed face to face with a table in-between to encourage people to interact with each other in this space. His choice of materials, shiny steel for the cross-braced railings, weathered oak for the handrails and granite for the steps, is intended to reflect a place where many different elements come together: forest / hill, ground / sky, people / trees, wild / tame, industrial / domestic. Simon describes the effect as "part Forth rail bridge, part park bench". The use of granite sets, like those found in a street, brings the city into the forest, whereas the creation of stepping stones, like scattered fragments, reflects the informality of nature. The bridge appeals to the imagination and thus encourages people to explore the site further. |
|
 |
|
|
|
