Tram Stop

This project was the result of a competition organized by the regional train company, FGV, for a new kind of tram stop that would be innovative, eye-catching and serve to give tram travel a fresher image. It included the design of the surrounding plaza, giving Subarquitectura the opportunity to turn a traffic node into a public space. Their design consists of a fractal access system, deformed on either side to accommodate the existing trees, which gives travellers 32 different ways of approaching the platform. Here, two open boxes (36 m long, 3 m wide, 2,5 m high) appear to float above the travellers' heads. The entire tram stop is made of steel; this is an isotropic material in both conception and construction. The steel allows the boxes to float on only 2 supports, creating a unique and magical sequence for approaching travellers. The boxes are perforated by 800 holes, which transform the boxes into giant lamps at night, as the light from internal luminaires shines through them.