Client
Role
Architect & Researcher
Duration
Dec 2022 - April 2023
Abstract
Re-designing train stations to be an integral and natural extension of the city fabric.
In Chennai, we studied and redesigned four key stations: Chennai Beach, Perambur, Jolarpattai, and Chengalpattu. Each station was analyzed using a comprehensive framework to enhance its role as a dynamic urban landmark.
Focusing on Perambur station, located at the heart of the city, we examined its integration within the mixed-use residential neighborhoods of Perambur, Vyasarpadi, Jamalia, and Ayanavaram. Through detailed analysis, we proposed interventions to transform the station into a vibrant and accessible urban node, reconnecting it to its surrounding context.
My Role
My role was multifaceted, involving meticulous documentation of train stations, user research, facilitating dialogue with station officials and the redesigning & representation.
Along with a team of talented architects and urban designers we developed analysis frameworks for station-city integration, assessed pedestrian and vehicular flows, and proposed design interventions. Additionally, we ensured that spatial, functional, and aesthetic considerations were effectively represented in the final outputs.
Contextual Research
Relationship to the city
The Perambur station is in the city centre. It is surrounded by mixed-used residential neighbourhood of Perambur, Vyasarpandi, Jamalia and Ayanavaram. The passenger station serves railway colony with its Southern Railway Headquarters Hospital and works, which have their own stations, Perambur Carriage Works railway station and Perambur Loco Works railway station.
Proximities
The station is in close proximity with public parks- Perambur garden, Mahatama Gandhi Park, Murasoli Park and Railway stadium. It caters to the Perambur and Ayanavram railway colony . The metro station and bus stops are in close proximity of the station, which makes it the important station in the city.
Street Edge Condition
There is sgnificant difference between road levels and railway track levels. The mounds form in between are vacant patches with wild vegetation. The compound wall, green strip and platform roof structure form layers of urban form that is very visiblle from the street, making it the ideal location to create a strong imageability for the station, through distinct forms as well as signages.
Station Building Study
Amenities
Major issues with amenities -
There are multiple entries to the station but each entry has some or the other facility missing. For eg. entry A and E are pedestrian Entry with no access to ticket counter, similarly Entry B has ticket counter but no access to parking while Entry C and D have parking access but no other facility.
When getting off the trains, there is no signages regarding exits available, amenities, nearby bus stop or metro etc.
Wayfinding to subway is unclear
Platform Typology - Shaded
The shaded areas of the platform have all required utilities like the signage, speakers, integrated with the roof structure.
The platforms are shaded with 2 types of roof structures according to the platform widths.
The drinking water facilities are provided within the water vending machine kiosks.
There are a minimum of three types of seating arrangments, all placed haphazardly.
The footbridge has one lift in the last platform. There are some service related activities in the base of some oof the steps.
Proposed Designs
Design Strategy
Building orientation and zoning makes sure that every green layer gets required sunlight throughout the day. With time as the residents and environment interact with the building all three will change and grow.
Platform & Kiosk Design
Platform organisation through objects of activity - design of seating and kiosks and integration of FOB to ensure maximising activity areas for passengers with high level of accessibility.
