Etterbeek train station is a true gateway to the city and to the neighbouring university district. Situated between several development projects (Usquare, La Plaine campus, etc.), it also represents a transport hub distributing commuters to nearby tram and bus stops. The SNCB wants to re-imagine this station and transform it into an efficient, comfortable and integrated intermodal hub. In addition, this is an opportunity for the railway company to put into practice its new “station typology” on which it is currently working.In effect, the SNCB is thinking about a way to integrate all passenger services into a new, recognisable station typology that will subsequently be applied to other projects across the country. This typology is based on three components: canopy, functional units and equipment. Etterbeek station will thus be one of the first sites to follow this new architectural identity. However, this does not mean a ready-made solution is being applied. The future project will have to be integrated into its complex urban environment to support the development of the area while enhancing the railway heritage. The SNCB is therefore looking for a design team capable of adopting the new typology through a project tailored to the site.
The project concerns the station, of course, but also the public space, the station square, the platforms and their accesses, in particular to improve conditions for users with reduced mobility.