AREP GROUP, GANGXIA NORTH STATION AND TONGZHOU STATION
A multidisciplinary group with a worldwide reputation, AREP has been operating for nearly 25 years in various project realms (architecture, urban planning, design, engineering, programming, consulting and project management), placing ecological urgency at the focus of attention as one of the guidelines behind its corporate mission. Climate change, the destruction of biodiversity and the depletion of non-renewable resources are the main challenges facing a group with a workforce of 1,000 professionals from 30 different nations. Its flagship projects recently completed in China include Gangxia North Metro Station and Tongzhou Station.
Gangxia North Station, a strategic hub for the Shenzhen metro, epitomises a new generation of transport infrastructure, in which innovation, sustainability and high-quality user experience converge gracefully. Covering an area of 220,000 m², it stands out as one of the largest underground infrastructures in China. The heart of the project is a spectacular atrium, nicknamed "the eye of Shenzhen," which catches the eye immediately. Inspired by Fermat's spiral, this monumental dome opens onto a circular glass roof that floods the space with natural light, breaking with the usual austerity of metro stations.
Majestic columns support the structure, instilling an overall feeling of solemnity reminiscent of a cathedral. This immersive architecture aims to give passengers a unique sensory experience, transforming the simple act of transit into an authentic aesthetic interlude. With an eye for a post-carbon future, AREP has designed a space that combines environmental performance and user comfort. Abundant natural light reduces energy needs, while the spatial layout promotes fluidity of movement and well-being. (Client: Shenzhen Metro Progetto: AREP Group)
Located in an integrated transport hub belonging to Beijing's main administration centre, new Tongzhou station on the Beijing-Tangshan intercity railway line officially opened on 30th December, 2025. It is set over three underground levels: the entrance hall, waiting room and track level, and also includes seven arrival and departure tracks and seven passenger platforms. The entrance hall also acts as a services centre and ticket validation area.
New Tongzhou station, together with Zhongcang and Tongzhou West stations, will improve the service to Beijing's outer urban area, optimising travel time between Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei Province by one hour and also promoting high-quality socio-economic growth in the region. (Client : Beijing Jingtou transportation hub Investment; Project: AREP Group; Partners: Beijing General Municipal Engineering Design & Research Institute Co., Ltd / China Architecture Design and Research Institute / China Railway Design Group. ® AREP - Yang Dongfang)
