Bureau B+B: Arnhem is entering a new phase in its existence with a spectacular new station. Various transport flows — trains, busses, trams, cars, pedestrian and cyclists — converge here in an urban landscape that focuses on facilitating encounters. Architecture office UNStudio drew up the masterplan for the station area and designed the public transport terminal, platforms, office towers and other facilities. Bureau B+B urbanism and landscape architecture designed the public space, an area of 45 thousand square meters.

The station area in Arnhem is situated in an area where the Hoge Veluwe landscape meets the River Nederrijn. A distinguishing feature of this area is its remarkable topography, with height differences of up to twenty metres. This forms the basis for a design in which the public space is interpreted as a continuous space that accommodates various visitor flows, amenities and experiences. Allowing the floors of the public transport terminal and the bus station to continue seamlessly into the outdoor spaces, creates one continuous ground plane. Natural stone paving is laid in various directions in response to the undulating plane, and stainless-steel figures subtly mark the topography. Height differences are bridged by stone folds in the plane. Fitted with wooden seating, the folds transform into benches that, together with the greenery, enhance the quality of space. On account of its rolling surface, the station surroundings have been discovered as an international skate zone, enhancing the vibrancy of the place. Thanks to the sturdy detailing of the ground plane and the durable street furniture, the arrival of this new category of users is easily accommodated.

The landscape transition from Hoge Veluwe to Nederrijn is also expressed in the planting. Along the lower eastern side, plants that thrive in the shade ensure a sturdily luxuriant quality, while colourful plants that prefer dry conditions define the appearance of the higher and sunnier areas. Scattered across the area, impressive sycamores pay homage to the green identity of Arnhem and ease orientation in the area. Transparent honey locusts mark meeting points and places of encounter.

The lighting concept has been developed in collaboration with Atelier Lek. Linear illumination and illumination integrated into the handrails of steps enhance the legibility of the landscape. Small lampposts positioned close to areas of greenery and seating create attractive settings, and spotlights in the ground highlight the monumental trees in the station area.

Landscape Architecture: BUREAU B+B
urbanism and landscape architecture
Location: Arnhem / The Netherlands
Area: 4,5ha
Completion: 2015
Photos: Frank Hanswijk, Ben Ter Mull