‘The Train Station in the Forest’ in China Complete: MAD Architects’ Visionary Approach to Transit-Oriented Development

MAD Architects has accomplished a significant milestone with the completion of the Jiaxing Train Station, a groundbreaking transit-oriented development in China. Located in the ancient city of Jiaxing, approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Shanghai, this project marks MAD's debut in the transportation infrastructure industry. It aims to tackle the difficulties brought about by China's shifting urban landscape while prioritizing technological innovation and human-centric design principles.

Design Inspirations

The project commenced by substituting an abandoned station on the premises between 1995 and 2019. After realizing that conventional train stations were frequently large and inhospitable, MAD Architects set out to redesign the idea. Their outlook is to create a structure that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, embraces cutting-edge transportation technologies, and gives users' comfort and accessibility a top priority.

MAD Architects took their cue from the 1907 construction of the Jiaxing Train Station, which combined modern elements with a nostalgic vibe. The station's rebuilt house pays homage to its historical counterpart by recreating its iconic façade with the aid of more than 210,000 bricks sourced locally. An eye-catching "floating" metal roof, symbolizing the intersection of innovation and tradition, adds to this tribute.

A Vision for Urban Renewal

Still, the station's makeover goes beyond appearances. Travelers can expect a calm atmosphere inside thanks to the interior's sleek, simple, anodized aluminum panels. The utilities' integration into the station's overall design adds to its seamless appearance by creating a sense of balance between form and function.

Yet, perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the Jiaxing Train Station lies underground. Here, most essential functions are housed, allowing for the expansion of lush green spaces above ground. With over 1,500 trees dotting the site, MAD Architects have created an urban oasis- starkly contrasting the concrete jungles typically associated with transportation hubs.

The station's surroundings are meticulously planned, with cultural and commercial buildings strategically positioned across the landscape. These structures, resembling floating rings nestled amidst the hills, add a touch of whimsy to the design. Meanwhile, a central lawn is a versatile venue for outdoor events, further enhancing the station's role as a community hub.

The Jiaxing Train Station is poised to accommodate an estimated 5.28 million visitors annually by 2025. Its comprehensive master plan incorporates various transportation modes and commercial facilities, all while prioritizing sustainable growth and environmental stewardship. MAD Architects' innovative approach not only meets the evolving needs of passengers but also revitalizes the urban fabric, underscoring the transformative power of visionary design.

MAD Architects is still pushing the envelope regarding architectural innovation even after Jiaxing. The firm's varied portfolio, which includes projects like Rotterdam's Museum of Migration and the wave-like Nanhai Art Center in Foshan City, demonstrates its dedication to reimagining the built environment for future generations. With every project, MAD Architects confirms their position as forerunners of a new architectural era that skillfully combines humanity and technology, as well as tradition and modernity.