Prix Versailles Names Seven of the World's Most Beautiful Train Stations

The Prix Versailles, a French organization that recognizes excellence in architecture and design, has announced its list of the world's seven most beautiful train stations. These stations are celebrated for their unique architectural features, local heritage integration, and contribution to urban spaces.

Jérôme Gouadain, secretary general of Prix Versailles, stated that the awards highlight how design excellence drives progress. He emphasized the importance of transport stations as cultural expressions that are simultaneously beautiful, fashionable, and sustainable, aiming to enhance passenger mobility while revitalizing neighborhoods and respecting existing architecture.

"In succeeding in this endeavor though, the winning travel hubs give us proof that 21st century passenger stations can be the bridges to a more desirable future," Gouadain said.

The selected stations represent a diverse range of styles and inspirations:

Town Hall Station, Melbourne, Australia This station is recognized for its immense underground volumes. Its concourse features eight columns designed to mimic trees, supporting a canopy above and creating a cathedral-like atmosphere. The design integrates art into the public space.

Lyon Part-Dieu Station, Lyon, France Recognized as one of Europe's busiest stations, Lyon Part-Dieu has been expanded with additional access points. Its design draws inspiration from the historic hidden passageways of Lyon's Vieux-Lyon and Croix-Rousse districts, reflecting the city's heritage.

Colosseo – Fori Imperiali Station, Rome, Italy This station spans four levels, reaching a depth of over 30 meters. It features a vast underground cavity where archaeological finds discovered during construction are displayed. The design incorporates ancient wells and plays with light and shadow to reveal Rome's geological strata.

Monte Sant'Angelo Station, Naples, Italy Designed by artist Sir Anish Kapoor, this station features two openings made of corten steel and aluminum that lead to a subterranean space resembling Mount Vesuvius. The station itself is conceived as a public sculpture.

National Museum Station, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Serving as a gateway to the National Museum and the city's historic center, this station's design is inspired by a neighboring coach station that resembles a Bedouin tent. Inside, blue walls transition to a sky-like effect within a stone mountain structure. The vast atrium is filled with natural light.

Western Station, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Located on the site of a former open-air market, Western Station maintains public utility while incorporating shops, a mosque, and pedestrian areas. Its design, inspired by desert dunes, features curved lines that create shaded areas and allow for natural light and air circulation.

LAX/Metro Transit Center, Los Angeles, United States This station marks a departure from the car-centric environment of Los Angeles. Designed for the local climate, it utilizes natural ventilation and awnings to minimize air conditioning needs, with solar panels contributing to its interior energy demand.