2026 Europe Conference - Madrid

Three European cities are undergoing massive transformation of their central railway stations, propelling transport infrastructure into a syncretic force of urban development. At Stockholm Central, work is underway to increase passenger capacity by 40%, while building a new mixed-use district over existing tracks, newly reconnecting the east and west sides of the city. In Stuttgart, a 16-track surface station is being replaced with an 8-track underground station, freeing up 100 hectares for new development. The reconstruction of Madrid Chamartin splits the main station into two terminals, one transport-oriented and the other an urban destination. Each will have two “faces” that newly connect the terminal to four sides, embedding it into the heart of the city.