Faded Erasmus Bridge turns blue again

The Erasmus Bridge in the heart of Rotterdam is being repainted in its original light blue, as conceived by architect Ben van Berkel. After 28 years, it is time for renovation. Van der Ende Steelprotectors is getting help from Akzo Nobel Sikkens with technical advice.

The original Sikkens light blue of "The Swan" has discolored over the years to almost white through chalking. After 28 years, it is time for a thorough renovation of this iconic link across the New Maas River, returning it to its original glory. The project, which requires over 1,500 liters of light blue Sikkens paint, is a challenging job for the parties involved on behalf of the Municipality of Rotterdam. Before painting could begin, the 800-meter-long bridge was carefully cleaned and rust spots were repaired. The 40 steel cables, which have a combined length of six kilometers, will also be addressed soon.

"Our paint products have been protecting and beautifying the Erasmus Bridge for 28 years, and we are proud that with our Sikkens paint products we can once again play an important role in the preservation of this special bridge in Rotterdam," says Remco Harinck, Key Account Manager Sikkens NL.

Subtle appearance

The light blue color of the Erasmus Bridge is due to the vision of architect Ben van Berkel. Instead of painting the bridge white, light blue was chosen, a color that allows the bridge to adapt even more to its surroundings and depending on the light looks different every day. In doing so, this color gives the bridge an elegant and subtle look that is not overpowering, but still distinctive.

The complexity of the project lies not only in its size, but especially in the 139-meter-high pylon, which can only be painted abseiling and using lifting scaffolding. During the work, the bridge remains accessible to traffic due to the special safety deck above the road. The renovation of the Erasmus Bridge, with a total area of 47,000 square meters, is expected to last until the end of the year.