Anzac Station an “emotional experience”

Leaders of the design team behind the Metro Tunnel’s state-of-the-art stations have spoken about the challenges of designing a major train station to sit next to one of Melbourne’s most important historical monuments – the Shrine of Remembrance.

Melbourne will be home to five stunning new underground stations when the project opens in 2025, a year ahead of schedule.

The station designs are a collaboration between international design practices Hassell, Weston Williamson + Partners (WW+P) and RSHP.

Anzac Station – located at the southern edge of the CBD on St Kilda Rd – will connect iconic Melbourne destinations including the Shrine, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park to the train network for the first time.

During a recent visit to Melbourne, internationally renowned designer and senior partner at RSHP Ivan Harbour said Anzac Station had been designed with its important location in mind.

“I’ve been told many times, it’s a very special place,” Mr Harbour said.

“We felt we needed to create something that had a level of modesty, in deference to the importance of the Shrine. You imagine quite an emotional experience in that location.”

Anzac Station was conceived as a “pavilion in the park” along a reimagined St Kilda Rd boulevard strategically set between the Shrine of Remembrance, Domain Parklands and Albert Park Lake, said Principal at Hassell Mark Loughnan.

“Vertical and horizontal pedestrian connections filled with fresh air ensure Anzac Station functions as a unique and safe gateway to and from Melbourne’s most significant parks and gardens,” Mr Loughnan said.

WW+P managing director Australia Will Riley said the materials for the station’s distinctive timber canopy were chosen as part of the sensitive, discreet approach to the station’s design.

“The striking timber canopy provides both shelter and shade while still allowing daylight to flood the station concourse beneath, creating an uplifting environment for passengers,” Mr Riley said.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect (OVGA) has worked closely with the Victorian Government to ensure the five new Metro Tunnel stations reflect the qualities of their locations and offer a special experience to all Melburnians.

“The Metro Tunnel links many important places in Melbourne and will change the way people move around the city. Not only from station to station, but also in and around the stations which are stitched carefully into each location,” Victorian Government Architect Jill Garner said.

Work on Anzac Station is powering ahead with installation of stairs, lifts, escalators, signature lights and platform screen doors now complete. Crews are also getting ready to pour the concrete stairs for the entrance in the Shine of Remembrance grounds. •

bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/metro-tunnel