Already known for its iconic architectural landmarks, the city of Sydney has added a new urban symbol after Gadigal Station was awarded the world title for the most beautiful station interior in 2025 by Prix Versailles, in collaboration with UNESCO.
The distinction – World Title – Special Prize for Interior – comes after the station was already included in November 2024 on the “Magnificent Seven” list, which brings together the seven most beautiful passenger stations in the world for 2025.
The project sets a new standard in transport infrastructure architecture, combining natural materials, advanced technical solutions, and cultural integration.
A new design benchmark for public transport
Every day, thousands of passengers pass through the station’s spacious halls, clad in sandstone, which lead to futuristic-looking platforms. The aluminum metal finishes, designed in the form of tubular panels, contribute to both the acoustics and the visual identity of the space.
The station was conceived not only as a transit point, but as a quality public space integrated into the urban fabric of the city of Sydney.
Cultural heritage integrated into architecture
A defining feature of Gadigal Station is the integration of Aboriginal cultural heritage into its design. The station is named after the Gadigal people, and at its entrances is the artwork Return of the Gadi Reed – four sculptures made of cast aluminum.
The installation is by artists Rowena Welsh-Jarrett, Alison Page, and Dakota Dixon and is inspired by traditional necklaces made from gadi, native reeds that once grew in the Tank Stream valley, where the station is located today. The work complements The Underneath installation by Callum Morton, which covers the walls inside the station entrances.
More than just a transport hub
Gadigal Station also plays a central role in a large-scale urban development project. Above the station are two towers: Parkline Place, a premium office building, and Sydney’s first residential building exclusively for rent, with 234 apartments.
This integration of public transport, office space, and housing reflects an increasingly common approach in large cities, where mobility infrastructure is becoming a driver for urban regeneration and smart densification.
Traffic and operational performance
Opened in August 2024, the station is used by approximately 15,700 passengers per day and is part of a six-station underground section between Central and Sydenham.
Express services offer journey times of 13 minutes to Chatswood and nine minutes to Sydenham, reinforcing the station’s role in the city’s metro network.
International recognition
The Prix Versailles award recognizes the architectural and design excellence of the project carried out by Sydney Metro, in partnership with Foster + Partners and COX Architecture.
For Sydney Metro, the award confirms its ambition to transform subway stations from simple functional infrastructure into landmark public spaces that can compete globally in terms of architecture and culture.
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