Sydney CBD and South East Light Rail   Sydney, Australia

Grimshaw has designed all 19 stops for Sydney's Central Business District (CBD) and South East (SE) Light Rail scheme.

The CBD & SE Light Rail has transformed Sydney's transit modality, redefined George Street as a grand granite paved pedestrian boulevard, re-connected the communities of the inner south eastern suburbs and instituted an urban amenity that has restored the vibrant pedestrian character that once distinguished historic Sydney. Circular Quay, Martin Place, and Town Hall Square emerge as Sydney's finest ensemble of public spaces. Central Station connects the City through the verdant landscapes of Surry Hills neighbourhoods, Moore Park, Randwick Racecourse, UNSW and Prince of Wales Hospital.


The architecture of the stops intends a subtle ordering of movement and marking of the places of embarking with an varying amenity and scale. Sydney's environment is subdued with the use of bronze as the cladding material. A noble material with historic significance, which patinas overtime with a tonality that affiliates with urban and landscape characters, establishing a subdued but timeless identity.

The design methodology integrates CCTV & PA systems, smart card (Opal) technology, communications, signalling and customer information as well as strategies for locating and selecting equipment, lighting, materials and finishes. This integrated system will establish a unique identity for Sydney while offering climatic amenity and legible wayfinding.

The stops have been designed to complement the urban contexts, heritage circumstances, and landscapes of their individual locales.

Andrew Cortese, Partner, Grimshaw

A ‘kit of parts’ has been created for the line wide component system, integrating a family of elements that includes canopies, integrated services, cabinets, totems and furniture. Embracing principles of modern, minimal, elegant, and functional design, the 19 stops contribute to a world class passenger experience, acting as a stimulus for efficient intermodal public transport and as a place making driver.

 

Location
Sydney, Australia

Project Type
Rail and Mass Transit →

 
Awards:
Australian Institute of Architects Awards, NSW Chapter 2020 – Lord Mayor’s Prize
Australian Institute of Architects Awards, NSW Chapter 2020 – Urban Design Award

Client
Transport for New South Wales

Status
Complete

Year
2019