Maxwan shared with us their master plan design for the transformation of the Leiden Central Station and its quarter in Leiden City, Netherlands. From a neglected station area into a vibrant new high-density neighborhood, their design strengthens the connection between the historic center in the south and Leiden’s Bio-Science District in the north. More images and architect’s description after the break.
Special care is taken to create a natural transition from the historic center into this new high density neighborhood. The street network has a similar fine grain and scale due to a special building typology. By combining low street facades with set back high rises, high density is created while attractive street lights , squares and green spaces are retained. The plan comprises 1000 new houses, workspaces for local starters as well as international firms, a new extension of Leiden’s shopping center, a multiplex cinema, cutting edge parking solutions and a new public transport hub including an indoor bus station and a light-rail station.
New and enhanced connections allow pedestrians and bicyclists to travel on street level between the two sides of the station without crossing cars, buses and trams.
Architect: Maxwan Location: Leiden, Netherlands Team leader: Kris Schaasberg Team: Anna Borzyszkowska, Artur Borejszo, Nara Lee, Nobuki Ogasahara, Rene Sangers, Harm te Velde Partner in charge: Rients Dijkstra, Hiroki Matsuura Program: transport hub, office, housing, retail, cinema, congress centre, hotel Client: City of Leiden Site area: 10 ha
