How can railway areas become vibrant urban spaces? This question guided students of the Liechtenstein School of Architecture during the spring semester 2025. The results of their design work were presented to the public in autumn 2025 in the exhibition «Gleisraum Buchs».

Designing in Spatial Context

The projects were developed in the foundation studio «Designing in Spatial Context» at the Liechtenstein School of Architecture within the Urban Design and Spatial Development Unit. Led by practice lecturers Timothy Allen and Ronan Crippa, the studio explored the future of railway environments and urban transformation areas.

The focus of the studio was the investigation of spatial relationships between infrastructure, settlement and landscape. Through analysis and design, students examined the potential of complex urban conditions and translated their findings into independent urban design proposals.

Transforming the Area Around Buchs Station

The starting point for the projects was the area surrounding Buchs (SG) railway station. With the ongoing expansion of public transport, this location is gaining strategic importance while structural changes are opening up new opportunities for development.

Students analysed the area along the railway tracks and developed a range of scenarios for its future transformation. The projects addressed questions of inner urban development, spatial densification and the relationship between mobility infrastructure, open space and mixed-use urban programmes. Issues such as climate adaptation and sustainable urban development also informed the design proposals.

Exhibition of Student Work

In October 2025, the projects were presented in the exhibition «Gleisraum Buchs» in a hall of the former customs warehouse in Buchs. Plans, models and scenarios documented the students’ different approaches to the future development of the site.

More information about the Urban Design and Spatial Development Unit

Photos: Barbara Ruech