Emma Collett

This research looks at what is needed to reconceptualise the public realm around train stations and how these spaces could be defined as modern town squares. As the research progresses, a series of interpretations will systematically examine the relationship between design discourse and the realised scheme, and of the collaboration of creative disciplines. By studying the integration of civic spaces within the city fabric alongside their design vision, it is hoped that a better understanding will emerge of the space semantics unique to transit hubs. A language is emerging through non-figurative painting to process and document the research process, the outcome of which is yet to be realised.  

This research builds on the work of the Independent Transport Commission (ITC), a policy institute analysing the spatial impacts of high-speed rail. The ITC’s research has influenced the U.K. national debate towards an understanding of the regeneration potential opened up by the development of High-Speed 2 (HS2). The key papers (2014, 2016) demonstrate infrastructure investment as an economic catalyst for prosperity and extensively cover the benefits of good connectivity at the city region scale. The research hopes to expand on the placemaking elements of the first publication; highlighted as one of the ‘next steps’ recommended for further consultation.  

High speed infrastructure is projected to increase passenger rail travel, which could result in greater numbers of visitors to the UK’s cities. The ITC recommend using ‘the station as a symbol of the ambitions of the city it serves’ and an opportunity to champion local distinctiveness. These gateways are becoming instrumental civic hubs; spaces that are required to perform multiple roles simultaneously. The station solely as an arrival and departure point is no more. A layering of retail units, art galleries, cafes and bars, offices and flexible civic space ensure vibrancy, while existing constraints provide further opportunities for creative solutions. Focusing on upgraded and extended stations, this research looks at the design discourse at a site-specific level. Conversations between site and designer in the traveller parallax will be examined. An interpretation of the creative process and collaboration will be contributed, to legislators, designers, educators and the wider creative field. 

An additional research aim is to simultaneously investigate the role of inscriptive practice as an aid to critical thought. Using journaling as a vehicle to disentangle thoughts and notations, a systematic analysis of the iterative physical manifestation is designed to expose meaning and bring clarity to an otherwise internalised process. The output is not yet clear, however the emerging language pattern is instrumental for documenting thought and new learning.  

Postgraduate supervisors

• Kathryn Moore
• Dr Jieling Xiao