Riyadh Metro Prototype Stations
As the local development authority began planning Riyadh’s first mass transit system they approached us with a challenge. How could design help convince a car-focused population, in a city that had no previous experience with public transit, to get out of their cars and onto the train?
Our solution was to design the highest quality transit experience—one that was both convenient and comfortable, but most importantly, one that stimulated, and elevated the relationship between passenger and system. Our designs for the prototype stations feature elegant, conditioned structures, along with the highest quality materials, furniture and components. Their dynamic, attractive form makes the stations immediately recognizable, and creates interest in the new system.
As the team began designing the station prototypes, our urban design experts worked with the Riyadh Development Authority to understand how the stations could be integrated to best address existing congestion issues and to accommodate future population growth. Using the new mass transit line along Olayya Street as a test case, a Comprehensive Development Plan was created for the corridor, incorporating pedestrian facilities and traffic management systems focused in and around the new stations.
Throughout the 10 year development of Riyadh’s plan, what began as a two-line LRT, grew to a six-line metro system with supporting facilities as well as a complimentary bus service.
In addition to deep underground interchange stations and park-and-ride facilities for the Riyadh BRT system, we designed terminal facilities and a family of bus stops to accommodate different configurations at over 5,000 locations across the city. From a single totem to larger unconditioned and conditioned shelters, the system is easily identifiable as part of the BRT system and designed to the same high standard as the Metro ensuring a seamless passenger experience across the new public transit network.
