Reconciling urban complexity with architectural ambition
Located in the heart of Brussels, Toots Thielemans station is part of the Metro 3 project, designed to structure the capital’s North–South axis. The densely built-up and tree-lined site imposed major constraints: maintaining surface traffic throughout construction, reintegrating large trees after completion, enhanced fire safety requirements, and high spatial quality for users.
A structural challenge: supporting the city while freeing up space
To accommodate trees and traffic loads, the station was built at significant depth, generating actions equivalent to a six-storey building over a 20-metre span. In response to this constraint, a dome solution made of concrete arches was selected, combining robustness and aesthetics.
An opening at the heart of an underground structure
The main architectural objective was to counter the oppressive feeling typical of underground spaces. By shaping the arches as if hollowed out by a sphere, a sense of openness and clarity was created. This formal gesture directly enhances passenger comfort while integrating technical functions, such as seating along the walls.
Form serving fire safety
The hollow shape of the arches acts as smoke traps in the event of a fire, keeping smoke away from passenger areas. This passive solution, combined with an integrated ventilation system, enables safe evacuation and effective emergency response.
