Nestled in the heart of northern Paris, the Saint-Denis Pleyel Station, a stunning architectural masterpiece by Kengo Kuma and Associates, has recently unveiled its captivating design. As part of the Grand Paris Express, an ambitious new rapid transport system encircling the city outskirts, this station stands as a vibrant nexus, connecting four metro lines and anticipating a daily influx of 250,000 passengers.
Spanning an impressive 35,000 square meters, the station seamlessly integrates with an existing urban bridge, granting passengers direct access to the RER D transport lines. Its defining feature is a striking angular form, comprised of wedge-shaped tiers enveloped in a captivating cloak of vertical wooden louvres.
Inside, a network of ramps elegantly winds around the station’s steel frame, inviting visitors to explore each level through glazed openings. A verdant public park graces the rooftop, offering a serene escape from the bustling cityscape.
A captivating interplay unfolds at the intersection of the existing bridge and the station, where both ramps and a wide public staircase descend gracefully to the ground-level forecourt, blurring the lines between the two structures.
“The station itself transforms into a public square,” Kengo Kuma & Associates explained, “designed as an extension of the forecourt across multiple levels to create a truly communal space.”
The station’s programmatic elements unfold across four subterranean levels and five above ground, with the lower levels dedicated to interconnecting the metro lines.
A magnificent 30-meter-deep atrium serves as the spine of the project, its breathtaking glass roof bathing the space below in natural light. Escalators and bridges traverse this void, creating a mesmerizing network of connections between the station’s various levels.
Initially revealed in 2015, Saint-Denis Pleyel Station flung open its doors to the public in June of this year, becoming an integral part of the broader redevelopment of the Saint-Denis district, masterminded by architect Dominique Perrault.
This district, which hosted the Olympic Village for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, aims to transcend its role as a temporary space, evolving into a lasting urban haven.
Adding to their portfolio of remarkable contemporary designs, Kengo Kuma and Associates have recently completed other notable projects, such as a residential building in Paris characterized by a pleated wooden façade and the renovation of an art center in Lisbon, now adorned with a sweeping wooden canopy.
All images are courtesy of Michel Denancé.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Kengo Kuma, Architect Behind Saint-Denis Pleyel Station
Time.news Editor: Good morning, Kengo! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent unveiling of the Saint-Denis Pleyel Station. It’s a striking addition to the Grand Paris Express project. What was your vision for this station, and what inspired its unique architectural design?
Kengo Kuma: Good morning! Thank you for having me. When designing the Pleyel Station, my primary goal was to create a space that reflects the vibrant movement of the city while also providing a sense of calm for its users. The angular form and the wedge-shaped tiers are meant to symbolize the dynamic energy of travel, while the vertical wooden louvres serve to integrate natural elements, providing shade and a softer aesthetic amidst the urban hustle.
Editor: It’s fascinating how architecture can convey such meanings. The integration with the existing urban bridge is quite a unique feature. Can you tell us more about how that connection enhances the passenger experience?
Kuma: Absolutely! The station’s seamless integration with the bridge is designed to facilitate an easy flow of movement between different transport modes. By allowing passengers direct access to the RER D lines from the station, we are creating a more efficient transit experience. When you arrive, you’re immediately connected to multiple lines, which enhances the convenience of commuting in and out of Paris. This design encourages people to use public transport, promoting sustainability.
Editor: Speaking of sustainability, the rooftop public park sounds like a wonderful addition. What does the park symbolize, and how does it fit into your vision of urban spaces?
Kuma: The rooftop park is integral to providing a balance between nature and urban life. In a bustling city like Paris, a serene escape is essential. It serves as a green lung for the station, offering a place for travelers and locals alike to gather, relax, and appreciate nature. This connection to greenery is crucial in modern architecture, as it promotes mental well-being and fosters a sense of community among the station’s users.
Editor: The design heavily relies on open spaces and light, with the elegant ramps and glazed openings. What role does light play in the overall ambiance of the station?
Kuma: Light is a vital element in any space, particularly in transport hubs where people often feel rushed. The glazed openings allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The ramps not only provide an intuitive flow through the station, but they also enable visitors to experience varying light conditions throughout the day. This interplay of light and space encourages exploration and makes commuting a more pleasant experience.
Editor: With an anticipated daily traffic of 250,000 passengers, how do you envision the station adapting over time to meet the evolving needs of commuters?
Kuma: The design is intentionally flexible. While we have created a strong foundational structure, the station can evolve with the needs of the city and its visitors. Features like modular spaces allow for future adaptations, whether expanding amenities or integrating new technologies for commuters. My hope is that this station will remain a vibrant and relevant part of Paris’s transport network for many years to come.
Editor: Thank you, Kengo, for sharing your insights with us. Your vision for the Saint-Denis Pleyel Station truly exemplifies the intersection of creativity and functionality in modern architecture. We look forward to witnessing how this remarkable space will transform urban mobility in Paris.
Kuma: Thank you! I’m excited to see how it will be embraced by the community. Let’s keep designing spaces that inspire and connect people!