CHICAGO UNION STATION

Motivated by the rich structural and tectonic history of Chicago Union Station, this project explores the relationship between structural morphology, urban movement, environment forces and other performative criteria. It focuses mainly on the structural system, program and flow analysis and the development of spatial conditions that create compelling public experience.

The structure is inspired be fibrous structure found in nature and thus the façade is developed based on the interest in the spaces between the pores and the different spatial depth in each pore. Structurally it is adapted in a logical way – compressed bottom that is denser and thicker to support the façade above that becomes thinner layered, light framework.

The programs are generally organized by the level of privacy each program needs. More accessible and public areas are located on the lower floor such as the Great Hall on the street level where it is the intersection between the Union Station at below ground level and the proposed building above ground level. A more private program such as the Auditorium is located on the upper level to minimize human traffic to the private venue.