Bologna Central Station

Location: Bologna, Italy
Client: RFI - Italian Railway Network
Team: Stig L. Andersson, Salka Kudsk, Katrine Sandstrøm
Collaborators: Henning Larsen Architects, Autonome Forme
Design phase: 2008
Area: 9 ha.
Type: 3rd prize, competition by invitation

Bologna Central Station is a major junction within the Italian railway system. It will play an even greater part in the future, not least when high-speed trains are being introduced. An expansion of its capacity is necessary. The areas along the tracks will be developed simultaneously into residential areas, whereby the two parts of the city are tied more closely together across the shunting yard. A new kind of green urbanism appears here, where dense building alternate with green, recreational urban spaces.

The plan is divided into smaller areas – each with a theme of its own. This makes each area easy to recognize and supports a feeling of belonging. Italian trains cross the border between north and south in Bologna. The proposal reflects this. Thus, a landscape inspired by Northern Italy is created along the trains moving to the north: A green, lush and moist landscape with a wide canal along the new residential buildings inspires people to promenade, relax in the sun, and meet up with friends.

A more southern atmosphere dominates the area south of the station. An area characterized by vigorous lemon trees and warm, intense colours. The rubber-coated hills create spatial variation and make more challenging movements and activities possible.

In another area one finds heavy scenting pines in a dry and warm landscape. A path in strong colours meander past the surrounding youth residences.