The Particle Plan

Medium: Mapping and beaming equipment.

The Particle Plan is a collaborative project between four Dutch studios, from various disciplines in the creative industry. The project is a result of the studios development of the winning concept for a permanent interactive light installation that will illuminate the famous Chapel bridge in Lucerne.

For many years, the Chapel Bridge, one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Switzerland disappeared from view at night, blocking the stunning view of the city skyline. ‘We urgently need light on the bridge!’, acknowledged a group of prominent Lucerner. They founded a project group and set up an international contest amongst architects, artists, and lighting specialists to find a unique plan that illuminated the bridge in a way which satisfied the needs of the increasing flow of intercontinental tourists and do justice to the historical character of the city and its culturally aware citizens. In July 2014, the jury chose ‘The Particle Plan’ as the winner of the competition.

The creative team noticed that crossing the bridge is a special experience. It connects to the history of the bridge and the city of Lucerne. Crossing the bridge is an act that should be seen from outside and experienced while walking over the bridge. With The Particle Plan, the Chapel bridge becomes a public stage. A stroll over the bridge generates a unique pattern of light on the bridge, illuminating the distinct elements that constitute the bridge, as a fresh renewable canvas. In this manner we also highlight how the bridge, built in 1333, is being kept alive as a concept whilst its hand-crafted parts are continuously being rejuvenated.

Read more: The Particle Plan by DRIFT