Kaplan–HaShalom Canopies

Tel Aviv faces a chronic shortage of shade in its densest urban corridors- particularly along infrastructure bridges and intersections where planting is structurally impossible. As part of a broader urban renewal initiative along the Kaplan–Givat HaTachmoshet–Derech HaShalom strip, carried out in collaboration with the HaKirya Boulevard project, the scheme introduced new cycling infrastructure, street trees, seating, and updated utilities. Where trees could not be planted, on two existing bridges, Kaplan Overpass and Gesher HaShalom, large-scale pergolas were designed to provide continuous shade.

The structural conditions on both bridges presented significant challenges: limited depth of 15–30cm for anchoring large canopy structures, unknown subsurface infrastructure, aging bridge construction with incomplete documentation, and highly constrained working conditions at two of the city's most trafficked intersections. The canopy design was developed in direct response to these constraints, finding structural solutions that could bear large spans with minimal ground penetration, while maintaining the continuity of shade across the full length of the corridor.