# RSHP and ERRE design Valencia's transformative rail hub with green spaces Underground rail integration frees ground level for public parks and cycling paths - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-09-16 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/99ea3e29-f55a-4191-8743-314427a33401 ## Underground rail integration The Valencia Central Station project relocates high-speed, commuter, and metro services underground, reclaiming surface space for public use. This approach reverses traditional rail infrastructure by prioritizing pedestrian areas over tracks. The design creates a continuous 'green axis' through the city center, connecting to the existing North Station. Architects emphasize this transformation will mend urban fragmentation caused by surface-level rail lines. ## Architectural collaboration RSHP (Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners) and Spanish firm ERRE partnered with engineering company Sener on the station design. The team drew inspiration from Valencia's historic North Station for the new structure's aesthetic. Their proposal features wall-less architecture sheltered by expansive, curved roof canopies. These designs aim to make underground platforms feel open through strategic light filtration and natural ventilation systems. ## Modular construction approach The project will utilize a lightweight modular canopy system to accelerate construction. This method reduces neighborhood disruption and construction waste while supporting circular economy principles. RSHP associate director Ainhoa Abreu Diaz highlights the system's potential for significant whole-life carbon reduction. However, the team hasn't disclosed specific timelines or carbon reduction targets for the Valencia project. ## Public space reclamation Surface-level plans include a linear park and new public square linking to the North Station. ERRE architects describe this as 'giving space back to people' for walking, cycling, and community activities. The adjacent historic North Station will undergo refurbishment to restore its urban presence. Renderings show seamless transitions between new and existing structures through shared design language. ## Environmental design features The station's roof canopies serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, filtering light and air to underground platforms. Architects aimed to make the subterranean spaces feel connected to surface environments. Natural ventilation systems and maximum facade openings ensure daylight reaches even the deepest platforms. These features align with contemporary sustainable transit hub design principles. ## Urban transformation goals RSHP director Simon Smithson describes burying incoming tracks as 'transformational' for Valencia's urban fabric. The project seeks to repair city divisions caused by rail infrastructure while modernizing transit capacity. By consolidating multiple rail services underground, the design enables cohesive redevelopment of surface areas. This mirrors global trends in urban rail station modernization. ## Construction efficiency focus The modular approach prioritizes rapid assembly with minimal neighborhood disruption. This systemization allows precise control over material use and waste reduction. While specific completion dates remain unannounced, the methodology suggests faster realization than traditional construction. The team cites similar benefits achieved in other RSHP transport projects worldwide. ## Global context The Valencia project joins international high-profile station designs like WilkinsonEyre's HS2 stations. It reflects growing emphasis on transit hubs as urban regeneration catalysts rather than purely functional nodes. The integration of public spaces follows successful precedents in cities like London and São Paulo, where station redesigns have spurred surrounding development while improving passenger experience. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/09/16/rshp-erre-valencia-central-station/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._