Prague will announce an architectural competition for the stations of the new metro line D

Prague councilors have tasked the Institute of Planning and Development of the City of Prague to revise the current proposals for the new metro line D stations. In addition to announcing an architectural competition for the Náměstí Bratří Synků and Náměstí Míru stations, the IPR will explore the possibilities of modifying the proposals for the other stations and the further routing of the metro line.
Hundreds of thousands of people pass through the Prague metro stations every day. The decision to build a new metro line D thus represents a fundamental opportunity for development that can enhance the overall quality of life for the residents of the metropolis.
“Prague's metro in the 21st century must have a quality and well-thought-out design with contemporary aesthetics. At the same time, it should be clear, allowing for easy and fast orientation, as well as easy maintenance of the stations,” says IPR director Petr Hlaváček. According to him, we should primarily learn from the recent completion of metro line A so that the same shortcomings are not repeated on the new line.

Underground train station at Wilhelm-Leuschner Square in Leipzig (Max Dudler, 1997-2012)

Architectural competitions and quality public spaces
The IPR has now been tasked with working together with the designer to evaluate the scope of possible modifications to the stations on the Pankrác – Depo Písnice section according to the existing zoning decision. Emphasis will be placed primarily on cultivating the connecting public spaces around the metro exits so that they bring added value to their surroundings.
For the Náměstí Bratří Synků and Náměstí Míru stations, which do not yet have a completed building permit, the IPR will attempt to announce an architectural competition. According to IPR recommendations, standard elements such as uniform signage for metro entrances or common furnishings should be unified as part of the new line. However, since each station is located in a different area, it is appropriate to differentiate the interiors of the stations.
“We can draw inspiration from Copenhagen. They announced an architectural competition for the entire metro line, and the winning studio designed twenty stations in a unified design. The stations have a simple concept, everything appears clean and clear,” states IPR director Petr Hlaváček. “The way the Munich metro is solved is also interesting, as it has uniformly designed entrances, but each platform is different. Various designers, artists, and architects worked on them, and the result is very successful,” adds Hlaváček.

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