In Liege, Belgium, stands the Liège-Guillemins station, a magnificent structure that seems to be in constant motion.
The designer, Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, crafted the Liège-Guillemins station with the goal of creating ‘permeability.’ As such, the building, which was designed to house the new services associated with Belgium’s high-speed rail network, has no facades. Instead, it is constructed with vaulted glass and a steel canopy that covers five platforms and extends over 145 meters.
Curvy Canopied Stations
The Liege-Guillemins Station is a Building Without Facades
Trend Themes
1. Permeable Architecture - The use of vaulted glass and steel canopies in architectural design creates opportunities for buildings without traditional facades.
2. Dynamic Structures - Designing buildings that appear to be in constant motion opens up potential for creating visually striking and engaging architectural landmarks.
3. Innovative Transport Hubs - The integration of new services and technologies into transportation infrastructure offers opportunities to reimagine traditional train stations.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects and designers can explore the use of vaulted glass, steel canopies, and non-traditional facades in their projects.
2. Construction - Builders and construction companies can adopt new techniques and materials to create dynamic and visually appealing structures.
3. Transportation - Railway authorities and transportation companies can invest in innovative technologies and designs to transform train stations into modern and efficient transport hubs.