What will Prague's new metro line D look like?
To mark the 50 th anniversary of the Prague metro we explored some of its iconic stations. In conclusion, here is a look at what the new metro line D will look like.
In December of last year, a new milestone was reached for work on Prague’s new metro line D. Excavation was completed for the first tunnel connecting Pankrác and Olbrachtova, invigorating a project in the works for several years, paving the way for an extension of the line to Nové Dvory, with work due to begin this Spring. As the work progressed, Radio Prague International interviewed Prague metro architect Anna Švarc about the aesthetics of the new stations she is coordinating.
A graduate of the School of Applied Arts in Prague (UMPRUM), Anna Švarc's career spans from Berlin to London. In Britain’s capital, she worked under Czech architect Eva Jiřičná and came upon the underground world of public transport infrastructure. Anna Švarc now works in the field. Returning to Prague, she briefly joined the Institute for Planning and Development, before eventually joining the Prague Public Transit Company (DPP), where her responsibilities include coordinating the aesthetics of new stations on metro line D which is currently being constructed.
Can you describe the aesthetic design of Metro D stations in three words?
“Simple, clean and clear. Each metro line has a distinctive mood, so for the D Line, we decided for a glass and cement composition. Further, each station will be enhanced by a work of art.”
From an aesthetic point of view, what is the ideal metro station?
“I don't believe in the idea of a perfect form of a metro station. In my opinion, a station should adapt to its surroundings, hence why stations in the historic centre differ from those on the city’s outskirts. Aesthetics should derive from function. However, of course, a completely functionalist design would render metro stations unpleasant for passengers. Given the lack of natural light in underground spaces, attractive aesthetics are essential for a good public transport system.”
In the past, you have worked on the London Underground. Out of all the underground rail stations around the world, which inspire you most?
“The Prague metro is strikingly similar to its Munich counterpart, built around the same time and at a similar scale. It must be said, though, that Munich's network is much more developed than Prague’s. Our metro also shares likenesses with Budapest, Montreal, Naples and even Vienna. The Austrian capital sees academic art as integral to the composition of metro stations, so that is definitely a source of inspiration.”
Comparing the Czech capital’s metro network with other networks around the world, do you sense an identity that sets Prague apart?
“Yes, I would like to think so. I have set out to ensure that this unique sense of identity goes unaltered. The original sections of Prague's three metro lines boast extensive architectural dossiers. A distinct visual identity is inherent to each station, and translates into a palette of colours, materials, lighting and artworks for each line. Nevertheless, each station has retained a uniqueness. Given the clear-cut characters shaping the stations, the essence of the Prague metro network has been relatively well preserved.”
Which aesthetic elements, if any, are you determined to preserve in future stations, and which will you eliminate?
“Each line has its own architectural style, which allows me some freedom. I think that line D will stand out in that the artwork will not simply complement the station, but will form its foundation. Artistic expression will be more pronounced.”
For stations on Line D, will you prefer uniformity or originality?
“The type of materials, escalator, escalator lighting and furniture will be identical across all Line D stations. Another common aspect will be the presence of a unique artwork selected through a competition. Let me explain the process in more detail. The overall layout of each station will first be defined, including the size and number of tunnels, and the location of the exits. In a competition, a panel then decided the artist who would create an artwork for each station. For example, the Nové Dvory station will be reminiscent of a boat or cathedral vault, designed by the iconic Czech artist Stanislav Kolíbal who won the competition. He chose subtle geometric lines of colour, running across the entire roof. The result is remarkable.”
Are environmental considerations important in the design of new stations?
“Environment awareness is fundamental when it comes to public transport . However, current legislation doesn't allow us to freely choose the materials we work with. Indeed, all materials must be strong, fireproof and waterproof. Really, the only environmental change planned is the switch from standard fluorescent lighting to LED technology.This will not only allow us to control the intensity and colour, but also saves three quarters of the energy needed to light underground spaces.”
For a while, there was talk of extending the D line from Náměstí Míru to Náměstí Republiky via Hlavní nádraží (Main Train Station). Is this project still on track?
“It’s complicated, because the subject of such an extension touches on rail development strategy. A project for an underground high-speed line, comparable to London's Crossrail, known as ‘Nové spojení II’ (New Connection II), plans to link Florenc with the Central Station and Smíchov. However, whether the system should be a matter for the metro or the railways is a question that remains to be answered. Currently, the Prague Public Transit Company is in charge of line D.”
Do we have any more information about the trains that will run on the new line?
“I have very little information concerning the actual trains on the new line, apart from the fact that we organised a mini-competition with UMPRUM (The Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague) to design the seat covers. Trains on the line will be driverless, so new safety barriers will be installed on platforms. There is even speculation that automated trains will replace the three existing lines.
“However, as an architect, I find it difficult to imagine adding platform barriers to line C, for example, as this would radically transform the character of the stations. If the safest variants of these barriers were chosen, essential components of architecture would be obscured.”
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50 Years of Prague Metro
The Prague metro turned 50 years old in 2024! To mark the occasion, we trace its history and explore some of the most iconic stations on the Czech capital's metro network.
