New architectural highlight: First grid shell for Stuttgart 21 ready!

New architectural highlight: First grid shell for Stuttgart 21 ready!

A new splendor for Stuttgart: On August 14, 2025, the first grid shell of the “Staatgalerie” was ceremoniously completed as part of the large Stuttgart 21 infrastructure project. This architectural masterpiece creates an impressive connection between the new underground track hall and the urban space. With a height of 8.5 meters and a footprint of 32 x 28 meters, the dimensions of the structure are as impressive as the technical know-how that went into its production. The grid shell is made of 110 tons of steel and is equipped with 725 precisely milled triangular glass panels that create a bright and transparent atmosphere in the south entrance of the new station.

The planning engineers had to overcome a challenge: the structural planning required a high level of expertise due to the weight and the effects of wind, snow and pressure waves from the trains. Particularly noteworthy are the 27 spherical bearings, which not only ensure freedom of movement, but also direct the high forces into the concrete shell roof - a masterpiece of engineering that is impressive both aesthetically and functionally.

Sustainability and design combined

Olaf Drescher, chairman of DB Projekt Stuttgart–Ulm GmbH, underlines the architectural significance of the transparent construction method. This grid shell is more than just an entrance: it is a statement for sustainable architecture that harmoniously combines technology and design. Andreas Hafner, Managing Director of seele GmbH, emphasizes that the grid shell represents an impressive balance between aesthetics, function and structure. In the future, travelers will be able to get directly from the Staatsgalerie stop to the main station and thus benefit from well-thought-out planning that will also increase the quality of life in Stuttgart.

This innovative construction is not only an eye-catcher, but also an example of how the architecture of the future can be designed. After all, climate awareness has arrived in architecture, and many projects with the aim of climate protection are being planned. An important step in this direction is also the use of material innovations that can increase efficiency in construction.

An eye-catcher for the future

In addition to the grid shell at the Staatsgalerie, other grid shells are in the works - including at Kurt-Georg-Kiesinger-Platz and the Bonatz Tower. The light eyes, which ensure a bright and friendly atmosphere in the underground station hall, are also nearing completion. The entire architecture of Stuttgart 21 sets new standards and impressively shows how modern building projects can combine aesthetic impact with functionality.

A total of four grid shells will be erected, each a work of art in its own right. This construction method could serve as a model for future sustainable projects that combine construction and climate protection. With this impressive construction, Stuttgart will take another step into the future, which will not only improve the transport infrastructure, but also sustainably increase the quality of life of its citizens.