Designing Stations for Passengers

Most passengers spend an average of seven minutes in a rail station waiting for a train. This article explains how stations can make the best use of space to improve this brief but important passenger experience. Train stations need to offer a safe, hassle-free experience. Good station design also holds additional commercial opportunities. St Pancras and King’s Cross stations are examples of how a thoroughly thought-out station design provides passengers an experience they want to continue to use and recommend to others. The design of stations has to reflect the relatively short period of time passengers will be there. Passengers do not want to be stuck in lines, but might want eat, drink, or buy a newspaper. They want safety and space, ticket machines that are easy to use and functioning, as well as friendly, informative staff who are easy to spot. They also want to find information about their journey as quickly as possible without feeling as though they are inconveniencing others. All these factors demonstrate why in station design or redevelopment, passenger needs must be fully considered. Making this a reality begins by recognizing the volume of passengers passing through the station. Configuration management is a crucial factor. Color, lighting, shading and signage need to be addressed, as do the audio and visual aspects of any design. Ultimately, the needs of the passenger will be balanced out by the station’s need for financial return, and this can come through retail development or advertising. A station has the potential to enhance the local area by encouraging businesses, such as restaurants and cafes, to take advantage of the influx of people.