# Canopied Train Stations This Taiwanese Train Station Design Offers Expansive Public Space By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2016-06-09 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/train-station-design References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/mecanoo-kaohsiung-station-taiwan/43771/) & [mecanoo.nl](http://www.mecanoo.nl) Train station design in the contemporary era of architecture is about far more than simply taking on a functional approach to create an environment in which the logistics of train-based transportation can be supported and streamlined -- it's also about boosting public spaces and playing a role in improving the architectural and environmental aesthetic of the area. This is precisely the approach taken by the Kaohsiung train station design. Devised by [Dutch architecture studio Mecanoo](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/foster-partners6), the train station will act as the centerpiece of the new Kaohsiung Metropolitan Area Underground Railway Project. It will boast a massive, curved shape spanning multiple levels and linking train station facilities to shopping, commercial and entertainment facilities. This train station design ensures that Kaohsiung doubles as both a [transportation hub](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/metro-transit-center-station) as well as a place that supports a vibrant lifestyle. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.4/10 - Popularity: 64% | Activity: 31% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/architecture) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Public Space Revitalization:** Transforming train stations into expansive public spaces to enhance the urban aesthetic and improve community well-being. - **Multi-functional Transportation Hubs:** Creating train stations that serve as more than just transportation nodes by integrating shopping, commercial, and entertainment facilities. - **Architectural and Environmental Enhancement:** Designing train stations as architectural landmarks that contribute to the overall aesthetic and environmental sustainability of an area. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture and Design:** Opportunities for architects and designers to re-imagine train stations as dynamic and visually appealing spaces. - **Urban Development:** Potential for urban planners to include train stations in revitalization projects and create vibrant community hubs. - **Transportation and Infrastructure:** Integration of multi-functional train stations into transportation networks to enhance passenger experience and attract more users. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Artfully Designed Train Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/design-studio-mad.md) - [Rebuilt Historic Train Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/train-station-in-the-forest.md) - [Latticed-Steel Transport Hub Columns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/metropolitan-station.md) - [Vertical Wooden Louvre Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/saintdenis-pleyel-station.md) - [Beach-Inspired Metro Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tourism-line.md) - [Barrel Vault-Topped Metro Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jahad-metro-plaza.md) - [Glazed Pavilion Landscape Stations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dongdan-grassland-sea-ruins-station.md) - [Harmonious Cityscape Monorails](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hk-monorail-concept.md) - [Panoramic Open-Air Roof Trains](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/electric-train.md)