The lead designer for the Metro Tunnel’s five state-of-the-art stations says the ‘simplicity and beauty’ of North Melbourne’s industrial past has inspired the design for the new Arden Station.
The station sits in the heart of Arden, which is set to become a thriving bio-medical and health sciences precinct accommodating up to 34,000 jobs and around 15,000 people by 2051.
The massive brick arches at the station’s entrance were inspired by 19th century British railway arches and reflect North Melbourne’s rich industrial history and character.
London-based firm Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners’ (RSHP) Ivan Harbour, who is overseeing the design of the stations, said Arden Station sits comfortably in its surroundings.
“It’s not about imposing something that is alien to the place,” he said. “We’re using Arden’s very recent industrial past to help inform the design decisions … the simplicity and beauty of [Arden’s] buildings is very apt.
Melbourne will be home to the five new Metro Tunnel underground stations when the project opens in 2025, including Arden, each combining functionality, space and natural light.
The station designs are an international collaboration between London-based firms RSHP and Weston Williamson and Partners, and Australian architects Hassell.
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