Gagarin Studio


TEL: 01422 300042

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Gagarin Studio is a client-focused, RIBA chartered practice with projects across the North of England. We're a team of experienced architects and designers with a growing reputation for thoughtful, high-quality placemaking across a variety of scales and sectors.

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#GAG 54

Leeds Footbridge

River Aire, Leeds

Project Info

RIBA Stages 0-7

National Infrastructure Commission Inaugural Award

RIBA Regional Award 2022

Stephen Lawrence Award – Finalist

Royal Fine Art Commission – Commended


“The new bridge at Climate Innovation District will be a handy way to cross the river away from cars, but for us, it’s a work of art”

CITU UK

The new footbridge for the Climate Innovation District is on the old Low Fold Mill site,  located over the River Aire in Leeds.

The bridge design is a collaborative exploration by GAGARIN and DP Squared and creates a simple yet visually fascinating river crossing for pedestrians either on foot, by bike, wheelchair or boat; connecting developments to the left and right bank, the tow path, the wider area of the River Aire and the city centre beyond.

The 50 metre long bridge is formed in a series of profiled corten steel slats which appear to fold and crank across its length. Although we have designed the bridge with only 16 different profiles, variances in spacing and orientation distinctively create a sense of the form stretching along its span. The resulting concertina-like quality brings sculptural interest and character for people crossing over or below the bridge and  the experience of the structure from a distance is one of lightness and simplicity. 

We’re thrilled that it recently received the National Infrastructure Commissions inaugural award for Design based on their four principles of Climate, People, Places & Value. We hope it will also bring delight and joy for both residents and the wider community in this area of the city.