Trans Siberian
Pit Stops

First place winners project had it all. Its iconic in its design as well as being sustainable and rooted in the history of the railway.

The winning project stood out for its unique combination of traditional forms of architecture and the dynamic nature of the railway. Studying local vernacular architecture, our first prize winners adopted a trusted and proven building form by lifting the building off the ground, this allowed for greater control of interior conditions by insulating from the winter cold as well as cooling during the summer period.

The project implemented a traditional construction and form with a strong silhouette and strong geometry, making it a bold and recognisable landmark that wouldn’t be out of place along this historic railway route.

The second place winners created a design with the serious potential of becoming a landmark, with its clear and coherent portrayal of woodfire hut. A single, circular pavilion, the project centred around a fireplace which provides light and heat to travellers. A fireplace is an archetype of social interactions, creating a comfortable space to rest, relax and commune with other travellers. The central fireplace also served a structural role as an intersecting point of its interior roof beam, creating an expressive addition to the interior.

The nature of a large fireplace is inviting and welcoming, and its slight peculiarity gives it a unique and symbolic appearance that can be recognised immediately from every station along the Transsiberian railway route.

The third place project, Anamorphosis, works to integrate itself within its surroundings with a mirrored facade. What made this design stand out to the jury panel is the dichotomy of its nature, its impressive design making it stand out while at the same time reflecting on the world around it. The exact same pavilion can be placed in Moscow, Kazan or Ulaanbaatar and have a completely different appearance as it is a reflection of its environment.

Once travelers enter the pavilion, the interior design is such that their gaze is drawn up the walls to the horizon beyond, highlighting panoramic views that allow tourists to easily orientate themselves with the city.