Andrea Comande

In 2008, after the Great Recession began to take its toll on the lives of countless Americans, the city of San Francisco renewed an inquiry regarding the construction of a suicide net below the Golden Gate Bridge. This project explored the intersection of psychological conditions regarding depression and suicide and the built environment, especially our attempts to curb these unwanted actions. 

My response was a commentary on the standard architectural expression of desperation and redemption. In this context, the suicide net becomes a new mode of architectural expression. My project looked to subvert the intended ‘program’ of the suicide net and co opt its form to create a landscape of pleasure below the Golden Gate Bridge. This new net accommodates various programs and activities, inviting tourists and residents to experience the bridge in new and unexpected ways.