Digital Urban Simulation : Documentation of the Teaching Results from the Autumn Semester 2015

Summary:
We analysed the train station Stadelhofen. It is situated in the north of the Stadelhoferplatz which is
directly connected to Sechseläutenplatz, one of the largest squares in Zürich. This park complex is also
one of the most representative in the city. Even the public train station building seems to be connected
to this area - but its front appears to be plainly functional. Due to the location of parking spaces for cars
and bicycles just in front of the building, it seems to be losing its ’’public face’’.
There are plans to extend the existing station by the 4th track. While the location of the track is yet to
be decided, we took the liberty to analyse the current urban and building situation and deal with its
constraints within possible means.
Motivation:
On one hand, we have a paved Sechseläutenplatz that opens to the Zürich Lake. It is perfectly designed
for people gatherings. One should not forget though, that it used to be a green park before. It has been
not so long ago, when the trees have been removed and the character of the whole place has been
dramatically changed. Then there is a Stadelhoferplatz, green, covered with large trees and water
fountains. It gives shadow and relief in summer but it also completely blocks the view between Zürich
Lake and the head building of the Stadelhofen Bahnhof. And then there is the train station itself. With
all its side entrances, hidden between the other buildings, cars and bicycles, only “unwillingly” opening
itself to the visitors.
In the design project we argue that the area in front of the train station should become more open
and connected to Stadelhoferplatz. Therefore we suggest the removal of the car and bicycles parking
lots and its replacement with trees and another pavement surface tin order to create an emotional
connection with the park across the street. The building itself should also be able to activate the space
in front oft it. It becomes necessary to rearrange the ground floor.
The analyses should show the underlying phenomena that prevent the Stadtelhoferpark to become a
functional public space. They should also be understood as a further argumentation of a project. They
also remain open to interpretations, hinting at decisions.
Digital Urban Simulation | Bahnhof Stadelhofen
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New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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iA Architecture