Riyadh Metro Station
Sustainable Urbanism
2012–
Introduction
The Qasr Al Hokm Metro Station in Riyadh will connect two of the lines in the city's brand-new metro network, which links key districts, reduce traffic congestion, and improve air quality.
Reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable urban living, the station will play a pivotal role in revitalizing the area and embodies the city's ongoing transformation.
The station features an open pedestrian plaza and a large polished stainless-steel canopy. The canopy visually links the station levels, directs natural light into the underground station, and provides shade to the surrounding public areas.
Technical details
Ar-Riyadh Development Authority (ADA)
Bringing the outside in
The station levels are visually linked through the reflective canopy, like a periscope, reflecting the outside inwards and the inside outward. The canopy rests on a large, inclined wall, defining an exterior void that carries indirect light down while acting as a unifying element and reference space in the building. The two metro lines span through this open space within glazed tubes, giving them a strong presence, clarity, and sense of navigation.
At the base of the atrium, an accessible garden emerges as an unexpected element within the underground station. The garden can be accessed from the two lines, allowing passengers to relax in a shaded, green space while waiting for their train.
Revitalizing the area
Reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable urban living, the station plays a pivotal role in revitalizing the area and provides an inviting public space where citizens can connect and engage. It establishes a new public transport link within the bustling city, helping to ease traffic on the streets. The station design encourages energy and water conservation, utilizes natural ventilation and incorporates PV panels on the roof.
Outside, the plaza area has a smooth terrazzo surface that extends to the edges of the site, clearly designating it as an open pedestrian space. Indigenous trees are planted in a harmonious line that aligns with the nearby mosque and Mecca, creating a serene atmosphere. The lush arrangement of the trees provides a welcoming shade, while irrigation channels outline the plaza floor, facilitating a flood-and-drain watering system for the trees and creating a subtle water feature at various times of the day.
The station's design is based on a competition winning concept by Snøhetta, who undertook the detail design in collaboration with One Works and Crew.
