Dietmar Feichtinger (born 18 November 1961 in Bruck an der Mur, Austria) is an Austrian architect based in Paris. After graduating in 1988 from the Technical University of Graz, he moved to Paris in 1989 where he founded Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes in 1994.
Photo: © David Boureau
Today he manages a practice with 35 staff. The agency works on a wide variety of subjects, schools, swimming pools, offices, housing and is internationally known for its works of art. In 1998 he won the competition for the Passerelle Simone-de-Beauvoir over the Seine, opposite the Bibliothèque nationale de France.
Photo: © David Boureau
This footbridge has a total length of 304 m and a clear span of 190 m. In 2002 Dietmar Feichtinger won the competition for the new access bridge to Mont Saint-Michel, with a total length of 1841 m. This bridge has been open to pedestrians since July 2014.
Photo: © David Boureau
Dietmar Feichtinger’s work is closely linked to a strong structural idea and innovative technical solutions. This elegant and sensitive architecture, which goes beyond fashions and mannerisms, has been recognized through the award of numerous prizes and distinctions. He is the author of light and slender footbridges across Europe such as the Passerelle des Trois Pays on the Rhine, and the Passerelle de la Paix in Lyon.
Photo: © Michael Zimmermann
In a recent interview Feichtinger confirmed that he likes to use steel in his footbridge designs, because of the lightness and transparency that can be achieved with a steel structure, especially in combination with large spans. It allows him to achieve an optimal integration of the bridge within the landscape, almost like drawing a delicate brushstroke.
Photo: © David Boureau (Left) & Mathias Neveling (Right)
About the Author:
Bruno Dursin – Managing Director at Believe in Steel. Bruno has more than 30 years of experience in promoting steel & steel solutions. His clients benefit from his extensive network within the building industry.
