Saint-Denis and Villejuif: Two train stations are fighting for the world prize!

Saint-Denis and Villejuif: Two train stations are fighting for the world prize!

The Saint-Denis Pleyel and Villejuif-Gustave Roussy train stations are in the spotlight of the architectural world. Both have been nominated for the title of “most beautiful train station in the world” in 2025, which will make the hearts of architecture enthusiasts beat faster. This nomination took place as part of the prestigious “Prix Versailles”, an international architecture prize supported by UNESCO. The list of finalists was published in Paris on November 3, 2023, and the excitement is building until the winner is announced at the end of November 2023. This is a really good event for all architecture lovers.

What makes these train stations so special? Saint-Denis Pleyel was designed by Japanese star architect Kengo Kuma, known for his innovative designs. Villejuif-Gustave Roussy, on the other hand, was designed by the French architect Dominique Perrault, whose works are always deeply rooted in modern architecture. Both architects impressively show how train stations are now not only transport hubs, but also architectural masterpieces.

Other nominees and the jury

The competition is not just limited to the two French train stations. Other nominated stations include Gare Gadigal in Sydney, Australia, designed by Foster + Partners, and Gare de Mons in Belgium, designed by Santiago Calatrava. Internationally, Baiyun Station in Guangzhou, China (Nikken Sekkei), and two stations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia are also available: KAFD Station (Zaha Hadid Architects) and Qasr Al Hokm Station (Snohetta).

The importance of such nominations is highlighted by Jérôme Gouadain, the prize's secretary general: train stations are an architectural playground for the industry's greatest talents. The Prix Versailles was launched in 2015 to promote the cultural aspects of sustainable development and to recognize current architectural achievements in various categories. In addition to train stations, museums, hotels, restaurants, universities and airports also receive awards. Finally, a category for stadiums will also be announced at the end of November 2023.

An international jury team, including greats such as Daniel Libeskind, Sou Fujimoto, David Adjaye and Wang Shu, will select the winners in 2024. The jury has not yet been announced for 2025, but expectations are high.

The interest in these outstanding buildings is contagious and shows once again how important architecture is not only as part of the urban environment, but also as an expression of cultural identity. If you didn't see the nominated stations before making your decision, you could potentially miss something, as they embody the perfect combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Now we just have to wait and see which station will ultimately prevail. The question remains: will it be Kengo Kuma's innovative design or Dominique Perrault's stylish work that will convince the jury? One thing is certain: the results of the competition are eagerly awaited.

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