Stephen Alton Architect, P.C. Perrine Bridge B.A.S.E. Jumping Platform Proposal

Stephen Alton Architect, P.C. developed a design proposal for the Design-It Google Guggenheim Shelter competition as part of a creative development exercise for our New York Studio.  Alton's proposal poses that if a shelter is itself sheltered, it may offer both spatial and functional liberties that may otherwise not be considered.  The 10’ x 10’ x 8’ shelter is at the heart of a dedicated spatial narrative designed around the world’s only legal B.A.S.E. jumping bridge, the Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, Idaho.  The design proposes access, a waiting and resting room, and a jumping platform that differentiates and privileges the BASE jumper, hiker, pedestrian in distinction to the road traffic above.  The access route starts the journey at the base of the bridge truss and runs on the top of the dense truss section, through the vertical spandrels under the bridge deck. 

The sequences in the spatial narrative, (illustrated in this animation), reflect a  personal journey of introspection, contemplation, waiting, and a test of will and mental preparedness.  All these states occur in anticipation of, in proximity to, and within the shelter hung off the bridge.

The experience is heightened through the unique space of the bridge substructure rather than from on top.  One arrives at the jumping platform via a series of spaces that highlight the way the Perrine Bridge substructure creates a spatial landscape that celebrates its height in the most stimulating fashion.  A viewing platform above the jumping off deck allows for spectators and other travelers to take in the views.  The Shelter was conceived as an effective void, within a larger system of voids represented by the trussing of the bridge.  It comprises Aluminum framing and large glass walls and floor to facilitate panoramic views from a sheltered position, while cantilevered off the bridge. In this manner the journey becomes ritualistic, exhibitionist and photogenic.  

Our proposal ensures that the Perrine Bridge is effectively designed, rather than merely designated the world's only legal BASE jumping bridge.