# Reused Brick and Timber Define Sweden's New Railway Station Gothenburg Grand Central enhances the city's transport network with sustainable materials. - **Source:** [ArchDaily Global](https://brifing.si/source/b856ce4a-b51b-4705-954b-40620e034caa) - **Published:** 2026-08-24 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/dfa421c2-5d12-4a90-bf5f-11244522b278 ## Project Scope Gothenburg Grand Central is a new station and western entrance designed by Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter. It's part of the West Link (Västlänken) commuter rail project at Gothenburg Central Station, featuring 8 kilometers of railway and three new stations (Centralen, Haga, and Korsvägen). The new route will increase peak-hour capacity and reduce travel times for commuter and regional trains. The station is set to open in 2026, with full operation by 2030. ## Architectural Design The new building will serve as the main entrance hall above the underground Västlänken station. The design includes station functions, retail spaces, and office floors accommodating 700 workspaces across 15,000 m². Acting as a bridge between the historic central station and the emerging Centralstaden district, the structure will feature multiple access points for shops, restaurants, and cafés. ## Sustainable Materials Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter emphasizes material reuse in its design. The facade incorporates 600,000 reused bricks with deep vertical reliefs and large arched openings, referencing Gothenburg's railway architecture history. The structure combines 9,100 m² of cross-laminated timber (CLT), steel, and concrete. Reused steel reduces the climate impact by minimizing virgin steel use. ## Urban Biodiversity The project supports urban biodiversity through a 200-meter roof promenade hosting 54 plant species that provide habitats for insects, birds, and local ecology. Large glazed areas maximize daylight in the station hall, while concrete arches and timber structures create a legible environment for travelers. These features reinforce the station's sustainability goals. ## Transport Integration Gothenburg Grand Central integrates rail, tram, bus, and bicycle infrastructure within a single development, promoting sustainable mobility in daily life. The station will directly connect to the existing central station and Nils Ericson Terminal. By strengthening the regional transport network, the project will facilitate both intra-city and intercity travel. ## European Transport Projects Similar transport projects are underway across Europe. The Grand Paris Express will connect the Paris region with 200 kilometers of new metro lines and 68 stations. In Milan, Park is transforming the interiors of Milano Centrale into a contemporary urban platform. Turin Metro Line 2 is being designed as a 32-station 'urban river.' These projects highlight the importance of sustainable transport solutions. ## Economic and Social Impact Gothenburg Grand Central will create 700 jobs and become a new commercial hub. Its retail spaces will boost local economic activity. The station will accelerate the development of the Centralstaden district, contributing to urban regeneration. Additionally, it will enhance Gothenburg's brand value by increasing tourism potential. ## Importance of Sustainable Architecture Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter's design demonstrates how sustainable architecture can be applied to transport projects. Reused materials offer climate-friendly solutions while preserving historical context. Gothenburg Grand Central sets a model for future infrastructure projects that prioritize environmental consciousness. This approach could play a critical role in achieving global climate goals. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.archdaily.com/1183811/reused-brick-and-timber-shape-reiulf-ramstad-arkitekters-new-railway-station-in-sweden — --- _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._