Model of Xiamen Metro’s gateways to be completed this month

Xiamen Rail Transit Group recently unveiled the design of Xiamen Metro’s gateways, selected from more than 100 proposals. The design is inspired by ancient Minnan architecture and includes strong Xiamen and Fujian characteristics. The "model project" of the Line 1 gateways will be completed this month. According to the construction plan, Xiamen will build four subway lines, with more than 300 gateways by 2020.

Designers identified design motifs in ancient Minnan houses then, for example, simplified the curve of the old roofs. Modern material and techniques will be used to build the ground level buildings of the rail transit facilities. Elsewhere, brick red will be the main colour of the gateways, a distinct and recognisable colour code that  will quickly guide passengers towards them and ease the flow of people. It was also reported that the Xiamen Metro gateways will be constructed using a steel structure and glass surface.

Metro gateways, accessible elevators and cooling towers are all part of the ground-level buildings of the metro stations. Compared to underground construction, ground-level buildings are much easier to establish. It was explained that Line 1 has enjoyed the fastest progress. The main structures of twenty two stations have been completed and the remaining two stations have started the construction of their main structures. The electrical installation of twenty one stations has also started.

According to the Xiamen Rail Transit Construction Plan, four metro lines will be built by 2020, with more than 300 gateways. Transfer stations will, of course, have more gateways. For example, Lv Cuo Station will have eleven gateways and East Hubin Road Station will have nine.

Xiamen Metro’s gateways will feature user-friendly facilities. Each station will be equipped with at least one accessible elevator, and direction signs will also be put in place above ground, 500 meters around the stations.