Schoyerer Architekten_SYRA

Statics: Bollinger&Grohmann, Frankfurt

Initial Situation

Heddernheim underground station was in need of structural refurbishment and lacked barrier-free access. The conversion became necessary in the course of the expansion of the underground lines, requiring the platforms to be raised to train level. At the same time, the existing kiosk—no longer adequate in terms of function and design—was to be replaced.

Concept

In contrast to the structurally heterogeneous surroundings, characterized by transport nodes, road bridges, and perimeter block development, the station was to be architecturally anchored through strong volumes. The design follows a sculptural approach—drawing on Donald Judd’s principle of clear cubic forms—with the aim of creating a distinct urban presence through striking roof volumes with a signaling effect, visible even from a distance, such as from the Maybach Bridge.

Architecture Description

The platform roofs consist of large-scale, geometrically clear volumes resting on a grid of supports. They appear as floating cubic forms which, in combination with the lighting concept, create a distinctive visual identity. The kiosk, designed as a glass pavilion with an integrated grating façade, offers openness during the day and protection at night. Colored metal panels behind the grating and a cantilevered reinforced concrete roof with skylight enhance the spatial depth. All visible surfaces—including walls and parapets—are executed in anthracite-colored, bush-hammered exposed concrete with crafted detailing.

Construction

The platform roofs are designed as steel plate structures, enabling large spans over stair openings with only a few irregularly positioned supports. The aluminum expanded metal cladding generates moiré effects and visual dynamism depending on the viewing angle. Backlit surfaces create an interactive lighting system controlled by train movements: color changes (e.g. yellow–orange, blue–green) indicate arriving and departing trains. Barrier-free circulation routes are precisely integrated into the topography—both underground via a pedestrian tunnel and above ground through a secured crossing beneath the bridge.

Jury explanation: The Light in Architecture Prize 2005 

spezial recognition fort the project : Tube Station in Frankfurt-Heddernheim

The Jury was impressed by the confident design of this subway station of which large sections are above ground. The lightness of the roofs over the platforms derives not from the refined nature of the structure but from the fact that their solid volumes dissolve in a sense of light and transparency (expanded mesh). Consequently, they have more the appearence of an additional level than of a platform roofing. This effect, together with the dynamic alternation of the light colours (the trains entering and leaving the station bathe the railway in changing light) lends the underground station high-profile significance as part of the urban landscape. Seldom is highly quality architecture to be found in such transportrelated buildings, but in this instance we have a highly successful and fascinating synthesis of design, material and light.