THE FLOW – Giza Central High-speed Railway Station

Brief:

The objective of the project is to develop a central high-speed railway station in Giza, connecting the first and second railway lines, that will also serve as a vital transportation hub. The proposed project is located in 6th of October City, Giza.
To cater to the needs of commuters, and to ensure the economical revenue of the project, a commercial mall was integrated into the project, Recognizing the potential for tourism and business opportunities, a five-star hotel was incorporated into the project.

Master Plan:
Meant to serve a capacity of 40,000 commuters per day, the condensed station was designed in a seamless flow pattern that goes along the paths of the commuters, to ensure there are no condensation points.
The arrival and departure halls were separated in levels, providing separated services, paths, emtrances, and waiting areas. However they remained connected through transit point to ensure the easiest and shortest travel distance to commuters.

New Approach:
The station’s floor and ceiling were designed in a directional design, platforms were color coded in correspondence with ticket colors, and outdoor landscape provided a direct flow to the main entrance and bus station. These approaches were used to facilitate and prevent the confusion travelers might feel to which way they should go.

Pedestrian Recreational Path:
The railways in any part of the world divides the city to two sides, hence we designed a sloped tunnel that connects the two sides of the city and provides a recreational park, commercial stores, public seating and fountains.

Environmental Nodes:
To ensure the best experience to the commuters, indoor was designed with an Oasis-like approach, that includes natural nodes in the waiting area, natural skylight for the whole station, natural with natural air flow.

Facades:
The facade was designed using mechanical louvres, that respond to the sunlight, pre- venting direct sunlight will allowing the maximum natural light within most of the spatial voids of the station.

Hotel:
The hotel hosts 200 rooms and suites, over- looking the ancient Giza Pyramids, it also hosts an infinity pool, restaurants and a health club.

Plaza:
The plaza area hosts a strip mall in a separated building serving the residents of the city, it also hosts a recreational park, public areas and connects with an open railway
museum.