GORK JOURNAL

Historical Elements in Train Station Architecture

Project: Jiaxing Train Station
Architecture: MAD
Photo: CreatAR
Geo: Jiaxing, CH


Projects of railway stations are rare guests in our magazine. I am eager to rectify this situation. Alongside stadiums and airports, these facilities deserve no less attention, at least due to their highly complex structure.

The architecture of old stations is often preserved. This can look different each time: reconstruction, canopies, etc. Today’s project, while located at a historical railway junction, required a complete overhaul due to modern realities, significantly increasing the size of the station itself. Despite the new project resembling a space aircraft carrier, there is a place for the old station building. It looks stunning. This detail makes the project unique and enhances the futurism of the new station’s architecture, forming a generational link and completing the composition. I’m observing something similar at the Vos’hod construction site in the Armani/Casa project, where a wooden historical mansion is preserved and reconstructed amid modern architecture.

The largest and most iconic railway facility I’ve had the chance to work on is the Adler Station. It contains an easter egg known only to the builders and designers. If you look at the arched extension of the main facade, you can notice a step. As far as I know, this was the result of a shortage of materials that failed to be delivered before the arrival of the inspection commission. It was decided not to redo it, and now this detail is even featured on Adler fridge magnets.
Architecture Photo