The prototype of the stops along the Sydney CBD and South East Light Rail (CSELR) route was recently unveiled by the New South Wales Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Andrew Constance.
The CSELR will connect Sydney’s CBD with Chinatown, Moore Park sporting precinct, Royal Randwick Racecourse and the south east residential areas of Randwick and Kensington with reliable, turn-up and go public transport.
Andrew Cortese, Managing Partner of Grimshaw Architects (Sydney) explains that the design of the light rail stops prioritises passenger experience, functionality and enduring materiality. He adds that the designs are intended to complement the urban contexts, heritage circumstances, and landscapes of their individual locales.
Grimshaw has created a ‘Kit of Parts’ for the line wide component system consisting of a family of elements that includes canopies, integrated services, cabinets, totems and furniture. This design methodology integrates CCTV and PA systems, smart card (Opal) technology, communications, signalling and customer information as well as strategies for locating and selecting equipment, lighting, materials and finishes.
Bronze was selected as the primary cladding material for the stops’ canopies. An alloy of copper and tin, bronze is a noble material that has historical significance across the CBD, dating from the colonial era. Cortese said the use of bronze recalls its use on other iconic Sydney buildings, including the Opera House, Myer and Gowing’s façades.
He added that the patina of the canopies will improve with age as the bronze oxidises and responds to the environment. When first installed at the stops, the bronze will have a ‘bright penny’ appearance, which will transform over time into a rich timeless patina.
Grimshaw considers the CSELR to be one of the state’s key catalysing urban infrastructure projects, connecting the Sydney CBD with the South East and helping achieve the objective of increasing residential density in and around the centre.
Once operational, the light rail will turn Sydney into a world-class leader in public transport, says Constance.
