The construction of the three metro stations on Line 18 in Paris has reached an important milestone. With the completion of the steel structures for the roofs, the final contours of the stations are now clearly visible. The stations, designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects and Atelier Novembre, are part of the new metro line in the south of Paris, connecting Orly Airport with Versailles. The stations are located on the Plateau de Saclay, also known as the European ‘Silicon Valley’.
Although they are still partially hidden behind the scaffolding, the distinctive shape of their architecture is gradually becoming visible. The completion of facades, interiors, and technical installations will follow in the upcoming phases, with delivery scheduled for 2025. The first section of Line 18, including these above-ground stations, will open to the public in 2026.
THREE STATIONS WITH A STRONG IDENTITY
The three stations – Marguerite Perey, Moulon Campus, and Chris de Saclay – form an integral part of the above-ground section of Line 18. The accompanying viaduct, designed by Explorations Architecture, crosses the Plateau de Saclay, an area rapidly developing into one of Europe's leading innovation hubs.
All three stations share a uniform design, characterized by their distinctive roof structures, which fold over both the viaduct and the station itself. These roofs give the stations a strong presence and a distinct visual identity.
"The striking shape of the roofs emerged naturally during the design process. We aimed for a lightweight structure with a large span. The origami-like folds create both a clever structure and a unique identity for the stations."
– Daniel Jongtien, Architect / Partner Benthem Crouwel Architects
The three stations are designed as a cohesive family, with a shared architectural language and material choices, yet each with subtle adjustments to suit their specific context. The design of the stations allows for a clear passage beneath the viaduct, guiding the flow of passengers. Abundant natural light and clear sightlines offer open views of the tracks and the surrounding area.
THE LARGEST INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT IN EUROPE
Line 18 is part of the prestigious Grand Paris Express project, which adds more than 200 kilometers of new metro lines and 68 new stations to the Paris network, with an investment of over 36 billion euros. This large-scale infrastructure program, which has attracted international expertise, provides a major boost to the mobility and growth of the city and its surroundings. The new metro lines connect previously isolated neighborhoods and stimulate the economic development of the region, with a focus on sustainable, energy-efficient mobility.
Benthem Crouwel Architects is not only working on the three stations on Line 18 but is also designing a station on Line 17: the new metro station for Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Team:
Client: Société Du Grand Paris
Stations: Benthem Crouwel Architects, Atelier Novembre
Viaduct: Explorations Architecture
Photographers: Arthur Weidmann, Philippe Guignard
