Theo Hotz Partner Architekten

Lucerne Main Station is an important HUB.

As one of Switzerland's mobility hubs, Lucerne Station connects many of the various modes of transport in the region. The pedestrian connection routes of the station should not feel monotonous, as a diversified spatial system reduces the required transfer distances to seem shorter. For this reason, the previously spatially separated distribution and track levels will be united to form an attractive large open space, which given its dimensions will be worthy of the significance of the underground station, and can function without natural light. Technical installations will be integrated into the supporting structure wherever possible, which, in combination with a strong lighting concept, will give the space additional grandiosity. The distribution level is designed to be open, and to provide free sightlines. Retail areas are optimally arranged along pedestrian channels, so that no uncontrollable and un-secured zones are created.

The station is an important retail location.

The requirements of the SBB Realty for retail areas and logistics are directly implemented in the project. The catering areas on the distribution level have an attractive location with a view onto the new railways. This feature invites both rail passengers as well as the general public of the surrounding region to linger, enjoy, and consume. A generous opening in the ceiling of the newly created retail area (market) provides natural light, creates visual links to the station square and leads the public directly down from the station square on to the shopping and distribution levels by means of a convenient staircase. This leads the public directly to the shopping level and relieves the ground-floor station concourse.

The station is highly technical and requires maintenance.

In close interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary cooperation between architects, engineers and other specialists, relevant technical concepts were intensively discussed and checked for feasibility. With the proposed smoke extraction concept, for example, it is possible to eliminate suspended elements which disturb the quality of the space. Instead, accessible, low-maintenance ducts are integrated into the floor and ceiling shell. The identity-creating surface materials such as cast glass and terrazzo are durable and easy-to-clean materials; they characterize the transfer station and give it character. Through the use of technically integrated installations in the track area, traditional elements such as such as visible lighting fixtures, can generally be dispensed with.

The station needs identity.

Existing buildings and the new underground station merge into one spatial unit. The high-quality architecture and character of the existing buildings in various stages is preserved. Meanwhile, the new buildings respect the old without losing their own identity. The planned relocation and reorganization of multiple bus stops will "de-clutter" the station square, and in order to offer a significant upgrade, a fire exhaust chimney will be located in the southern end of platform 10/11. The exposed historic archway and the generous light opening together with the staircase now characterize the shopping and distribution level of the square.

Client
SBB AG

Use
Railway station

Services
Competition