Arresting momentum : creating a sense of place in a multi-modal transit hub

Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTION: How might the design of a transit interchange inform the experience of movement and promote the use of public transport?

ABSTRACT: People are instinctively keen to travel. In the past, communities migrated between regions due to seasonal changes or resource scarcity. In modern society, with the advent of mass-transit, getting from one suburb, city or country to another has become quick and simple – often an everyday activity. Because of this, we are leading more nomadic lifestyles, where people are frequently on the move, meeting new people, being social, exploring, or travelling between work, school and home.

We have far surpassed the novelty of air travel, and have entered an age where mass-transit is our current solution for citizens navigating around their cities and countries. It is vital that the design of transport hubs accommodates the requirement for mass-transit, as well as social requirements.

The project looks into the design of a transit hub for Auckland on an appropriate site. The hub accommodates existing modes of transport - Heavy Rail and Bus - along with a Light Rail network, and commuter services connecting to Hamilton – Auckland’s nearest city-neighbour.

The hub design investigates the qualities of the space and how they can enhance the experience for the user. It is performed through explorations of programme and spatial strategies.