VILLAGE OF EVENDALE BRIDGE

 / KOLAR + IBI GROUP + HUMAN NATURE

As a pivotal member of the design team at Kolar Design, I had the unique opportunity to lead the conceptualization and realization of the Village of Evendale I-75 Bridge. This endeavor was not merely about constructing a bridge; it was an intricate exercise in weaving together the historical, cultural, and civic threads of Hamilton County and the Village of Evendale into a cohesive tapestry.

Historical Context and Local Inspiration

The design philosophy was anchored in a profound appreciation for the local milieu. We immersed ourselves in the WPA architectural style, the nuanced architecture of village edifices, and the art-deco reliefs that adorn the city hall. Our aspiration was to craft a design narrative that resonated with the ethos of Evendale and its neighboring precincts. The bridge's design, reminiscent of iconic structures like the Court Street Steps and Paddock Road Bridge, sought to capture the dynamism of the Ohio River, fostering connections and crafting a broader narrative of Hamilton County.

CINCINNATI OHIO

TEAM KOLAR + IBI Group + Human Nature
ROLE Lead Designer
Full Scope
LOCATION Village of Evendale
DESIGN 2017
CONSTRUCTION 2020

PHOTOS Ross Van Pelt

 
 

Inspiration / Evendale Mood Board

 

Community-Centric Design: A Three-Phase Approach

Our methodology was rooted in a three-phase approach, ensuring the community remained central to our design narrative:

  • Awareness: 
    This phase was about immersion. We engaged with the community, understanding their aspirations, concerns, and the historical context of their surroundings. This deep dive allowed us to grasp the nuances of the local culture, ensuring our design would be reflective and respectful of its context.

  • Exploration: 
    Armed with insights from the awareness phase, we embarked on a journey of exploration. Through open engagement sessions, we solicited feedback, understanding the community's yearning for a unique and evocative representation of their identity.

  • Vision: 
    The culmination of our efforts was a vision that was both inclusive and forward-looking. The bridge symbolized unity, a celebration, and a beacon for a more inclusive Greater Cincinnati.

Cincinnati, Ohio - Architectural Heritage + Inspiration

 
 

PROJECT LOCATION

 

Collaboration as Catalyst

The success of the Village of Evendale Bridge is a testament to the alchemy of collaboration. Our synergies with entities like GE Aviation and the Aerohub Innovation District enriched our design vision. The partnership between Kolar Design, Human Nature, IBI Group Inc., and the Ohio Department of Transportation transformed this from a mere infrastructure project to a civic impact initiative. This endeavor epitomizes the ethos of collaborative design, showcasing the transformative power of collective vision and purpose.

The Village of Evendale Bridge stands as an academic case study of design's power to weave disparate threads into a cohesive narrative. It underscores the importance of community-centric design and the transformative potential of collaboration. As we reflect on this journey, we are reminded of the possibility of innovation to craft narratives, foster connections, and shape futures.