Embracing a design's true essence
Do underground subway lines strike you as somewhat creepy? Stockholm, Sweden has created an innovative metro line that embraces the very element we are often left so unsettled by- the subterranian aspect. I just read a wonderful article by Josh Spear in which he talks about the positive approach of embracing nature in design instead of trying to cover it up.
It’s important to note that feeling comfortable in such an undeniably “underground” setting is tough, to say the least. Until I saw these pictures of the subway system in Stockholm, I hadn’t considered that the reason behind my feeling unnatural could have more to do with the way we try to cover up that fact than the actual fact itself. Normally, when I see pictures of subway systems, the words that come to mind are “dirty,” “fast-paced,” and “necessary evil,” but these pics invoke a sense of adventure- they’re even warming,... There are always perks to honesty, and by letting the natural underground setting show through, it appears as though Stockholm warded off the general feelings of displacement subways are typically known for.
Simply by revealing the raw bedrock, the designers are embracing the natural state of being underground instead of trying to cover it up and make if feel as though you are anywhere else. And these beautiful fresco paintings, aren't they charming?
images from here
4 comments:
Wow! This is the coolest thing I have seen in a long time. It sure beats any subway station I've ever been in. It is so inviting.
Isn't it refreshing? NYC subways are so darn creepy. i like that they didn't try to cover up what it was- actually underground.
That really is cool! I love it! I wonder if the other reason people seem to like it is that it IS natural - kind of a reminder of what's up above.
And it's far more interesting than bland, monotonous subway walls. lol
One word. Wow!
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