The proposal by Zeybekoglu Nayman Associates for Sofia’s newly planned Metropolitan Station 20 exists as three giant, light catching, glass sails. Soaring into the air as cars wiz by in both directions, the new station will share a symbiosis with the street upon its completion- the station thriving off the street’s energy and the street gaining place within the city through its new landmark.
Courtesy of ZNA
The architects stat that,
The sun penetrates down through sculptural skylights illuminating the entire station in a warm glow. The use of daylight as an architectural element assists orientation for passengers and provides a sense of security. It allows for the atmosphere of the station to be transformed by the color of the sky. Underground the station is efficient, easy to read and comprehend through its organized masses. The descent down to the metro is designed as an elegant, modern addition to the street life above. Public access areas on B1 contain places to sit, shop, and dine. Open to all, this level has direct access to both sides of Obikolna Street through a new pedestrian underpass. Ticketed areas on B2 including the platforms are separated by a series of turnstiles that lead to zones of vertical transportation.
Courtesy of ZNA
This design demonstrates a spatial coherence between the two worlds above and below. Gracefully shaped glass geometries define a modern sculptural addition to the outdoor-indoor environment. During the day the outside is brought into the station and at the night the glowing illumination from within becomes part of the street scene.
By Matt davis
courtesy of Zeybekoglu Nayman Associates