foster + partners has completed four stations that form part of a 450-kilometer-long (280-mile) rail link that connects the major saudi arabian cities of makkah, madinah, jeddah, and king abdullah economic city. the stations that comprise the haramain high-speed railway are inspired by the ancient architectural traditions of the region and provide a shaded retreat from the sun while creating a new infrastructural spine for the country.

all images © nigel young / foster + partners
 
 
foster + partners built the stations using a modular approach, with consistent design elements throughout the four stations. the steel columns and arches form freestanding structural trees that are repeated on a square grid and connect to form a flexible vaulted roof ? a gesture that references the colonnades found in much of the region?s traditional architecture. the vaults in each station are of a different color, responding to the identity of the different cities.
 
 
?we have designed all four stations, resulting in a consistent approach and intuitive wayfinding strategy throughout the network,? explains angus campbell, senior partner, foster + partners. ?the stations are based on a common 27-meter-square module containing the roof, concourse and platform, which is flexible enough to be reconfigured for both through- and terminus stations, while also making it possible to extend the stations in response to changing passenger requirements.?

 
 
as the stations must serve up to 20,...