Namur is the capital of the Belgian region of Wallonia and seat of the Walloon public institutions. Plans are in place to redevelop Namur so that it can do justice to its city status. The station and surrounding area – the hub for transport links to the outside world – plays a key role in this makeover.
Architecturally, the plan is expressed through the use of a modern design, contemporary materials and a pure composition. The proposed design gives the station the look that its social role demands and turns it into a true centrally-located orientation point in the city. The point of departure adopted in including the building in the area’s urban development plans is one of architectural antitheses.
This contrast in architectural expressions (the classical station and the modern MET building and platform) guarantees the positive re-evaluation of the urban quality – a position confirmed by the Leuven station, with the contrast between the old station building and the new platform awning serving as an excellent example of this aspect.
The general cityscape is echoed by “metal waves”, which serve to extend the existing morphology and design. These waves refer to the station’s archetype, the glass vault and the dome.