Moscow's Visual Legacy in New Subway Station

U-R-A to Celebrate Moscow's Visual Legacy in New Subway Station

Earlier this year, the city of Moscow launched a design competition for the commission to design two of the city's metro stations. The project's goal was to revive the tradition of unique subway station designs, a municipal public works showcase that had been a marked feature of Moscow in the mid-1900s. Ten firms made it to the shortlist, and the designs were submitted to a public referendum. Over 300,000 Moscow citizens cast their vote in favor of United Riga Architects’ now-winning designs for the Novoperedelkino Station. U-R-A’s plan outlines an aesthetic system based on the area's character: The design's main element are backlit metal panels, each cut out with designs that allude to the the city's cultural and aesthetic legacy — and, in particular, the forests associated with the area.

Mimicking the shape of the vaults of the Kremlin chambers, the sweeping station columns and ceilings utilize perforated panels and LED backlighting to bring the visual motifs to life. Using this system, U-R-A establishes the station as one rooted in modernity, technological advancement, and versatility: The LED lights can easily change colors or be swapped out to acknowledge city festivals or events of significance. Classic transit amenities are also included in the U-R-A design, with the station featuring lofty ceilings, wide platforms, ample seating, and efficient flows of entry and exit to the city above.

Images via U-R-A Architects.