Between Kenzo Tange’s towers, a new station by Miralles Tagliabue opens in Naples

In the Centro Direzionale area of Naples, the large-scale urban development designed by Kenzo Tange in the 1970s, the new “Centro Direzionale” metro station, designed by Benedetta Tagliabue – Miralles Tagliabue EMBT, is finally taking shape. The project forms part of the wider programme of designer stations promoted by the City Council and aims to mark a decisive step in the revitalisation of an area that is currently poorly integrated into the rhythms of urban life. The new structure, built above the tracks of the existing line, replaces the previous building – little more than a canopy covering the access points to the platforms – retaining its concrete framework and superimposing a lightweight volume of laminated timber upon it.

In stark contrast to the surroundings dominated by gleaming, somewhat aseptic towers, the new station appears as a fluid, permeable structure, arranged in a dynamic sequence of vaults which, like a light drape, floats above a covered square: an image that evokes the exuberant plasticity of the Santa Caterina market in Barcelona and which, through the grid of wooden pillars dotting the space, suggests the idea – as Benedetta Tagliabue states – of a “stroll through the woods”. On the roof, a large pixelated ceramic work will depict a face taken from a Pompeian archaeological find, in line with the project’s overall objectives of transforming Naples’ mobility infrastructure into a museum-like journey spanning architecture, art and archaeology. Outside, a network of tree-lined squares and public pathways re-establishes a dialogue with the neighbourhood; inside, vibrant colour palettes accompany travellers’ journeys, transforming the transit experience into a clearly recognisable and visually captivating route, amidst imaginary forests and vaguely “pop” suggestions.