Antwerpen

Central Station

LOCATION
Antwerp (BE)

YEAR
2021-2023

CLIENT
City of Antwerp

LIGHTING DESIGN PROJECT
Susanna Antico Lighting Design Studio

PHOTOGRAPHER
Benno Van den Bogaert


AWARDS
lighting-design-awards ligh-awards illumination-awards

The lighting design for Antwerp Central Station enhances its architectural grandeur and dynamic urban role, guiding movement, highlighting key features, and creating a welcoming, atmospheric space that blends heritage with modern experience.

Our lighting for the “Railway Cathedral” balances heritage enhancement with future-oriented experience of the building & surroundings by embellishing & reinforcing its architectural grandeur while stating its kinetic energy.

Movement defines the essence of a dynamic city - especially in a railway station, where people & goods flow seamlessly. Our design reestablishes the hierarchy of the station, guiding perception, ensuring harmonious interplay of light, architecture & activity.

Antwerpen Central, built in 1895, is widely considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world. The building presents itself with three distinct façades, each offering a unique experience & function. From Keyserlei, the iconic entrance & façade act as visual magnets, drawing visitors to the station. The intricate details of Astridplein’s twin towers impressively echo the elegance of the neighbouring Zoo, a lush exotic oasis of the same architectural style.

Adjacent to the diamond district, the roof tiles evoke both crocodile leather & glazed enamel of jewellery, seamlessly tying the station to the city’s identity. The rosace of the entrance dome, reminiscent of a peacock’s tail, reinforces this sense of opulence.

The lighting elevates the station beyond mere functionality, highlighting rich architectural details, enhances wayfinding & fosters a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. The station becomes a space where people can pause & experience a moment of relaxation amidst the urban flow.

antwerpen-central-station