Paddington Elizabeth Line Station, Westminster

2024 RIBA London Award

Paddington Elizabeth Line Station, Westminster
Weston Williamson + Partners for Transport for London
Contract value: Confidential 
GIA: 25,000m²

Paddington Elizabeth Line Station is a remarkable addition to London’s transport network, bringing daylight and fresh air to platform level, unlike most underground stations. To make a seamless and uplifting transition from Brunel’s Grade I listed Paddington railway station, much of which dates from the 1850s, Weston Williamson + Partners used some of the historic station’s motifs in the modern design. Accessibility is at the heart of the project, with lifts at the centre of the station allowing all to enjoy the same experience of its architecture. An early decision to separate the entrance from that of the main station provided several design opportunities. 

The new station consequently stands on its own. Natural daylight reaches the platforms via strategically positioned large voids, creating a refreshing ambience, while natural ventilation brings fresh air throughout – a testament to its environmental stewardship.

The design prioritises simplicity, clear sightlines and accessibility, ensuring a welcoming environment for all travellers. Meticulously selected materials adorn the station, marrying aesthetics with functionality and allowing for an uncluttered environment. Ingeniously integrated with London Underground and Paddington railway station, it respectfully borrows from its architectural heritage, blending modernity with tradition. It follows the 10-foot grid of the 1850s station design by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, as well as its motifs, to pay homage to its historic counterpart while carving its own identity.

Through its rigorous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to sustainability, this station stands as a beacon of inspiration, setting a precedent for future transport developments. Nestled in the heart of the capital, it marks a pivotal moment in London's transportation landscape with the integration of the new Elizabeth Line to the existing infrastructure, and testifies to its architect’s ingenuity.

See the rest of the RIBA London winners here. And all the RIBA Regional Awards here

To see the whole RIBA Awards process visit architecture.com

RIBA Regional Awards 2024 sponsored by EH Smith and Autodesk