Harbin Metro Line 2: A Fusion of Modernity, Tradition, and Innovation

Revitalizing Harbin's Cultural Landscape through Design

Harbin, China - April 2020

Harbin Metro Line 2, designed by the renowned Shenzhen Grandland Group Co., Ltd., is not just an underground transportation system; it is a testament to the city's rich history and vibrant future. Spanning the Songhua River, this subway line seamlessly blends modernity, tradition, and innovation, creating a unique cultural experience for its passengers.

The design of Harbin Metro Line 2 draws inspiration from the city's diverse cultural heritage. Divided into three segments, each section represents a different aspect of Harbin's identity. The south segment embodies modern life, the middle segment showcases the city's rich history and culture, while the north segment highlights future vitality and innovation.

One of the standout features of this design is the platform's modern European style. The designers have reimagined and optimized elements and colors, seamlessly integrating concise lines with traditional European elements. This fusion creates a visual narrative that reflects the cultural scenes in the history of Harbin.

Harbin Metro Line 2 stands out from other subway designs due to its emphasis on local culture and characteristics. The designers have meticulously selected building colors and European symbols, applying them to different stations along the line. This approach ensures that each station fully reflects the unique local culture, creating a sense of place and identity.

The realization of this design involved a combination of various materials and techniques. Encaustic tiles adorn the platform ceilings, while iron members, glass, and ceramic products add interest to the interior spaces. The result is a concise and lively environment that reflects the fast pace and vigor of modern life.

With a total area of 250,000 square meters, Harbin Metro Line 2 is not only an architectural marvel but also an economic artery for the city. Its bright and vibrant colors, along with the use of odd-shaped roofs and elegant lines, create a visually captivating space. Roman columns and wall lamps add a touch of Western aesthetic, evoking a sense of street romance.

The completion of Harbin Metro Line 2 in April 2020 marked a significant milestone for the city. The project's success can be attributed to the design team's comprehensive approach, balancing design, material procurement, construction, and installation. By optimizing the design from the perspective of on-site construction, the team achieved improved efficiency, cost savings, and accelerated progress.

Recognizing its excellence, Harbin Metro Line 2 was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills, contributing to the improvement of quality of life.

Harbin Metro Line 2 is not just a means of transportation; it is a living testament to the city's past, present, and future. Through its thoughtful design, this subway line revitalizes Harbin's cultural landscape, creating a harmonious blend of modernity, tradition, and innovation.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Shenzhen Grandland & Beijing Guangyuan
Image Credits: Yong Chen, Yuzhuo Wen
Project Team Members: Jiman Liu,Peng Li,Yuzhuo Wen,Zhenhui Gao,Tao Liu
Project Name: Harbin Metro Line 2
Project Client: Shenzhen Grandland & Beijing Guangyuan


Harbin Metro Line 2 IMG #2
Harbin Metro Line 2 IMG #3
Harbin Metro Line 2 IMG #4
Harbin Metro Line 2 IMG #5
Harbin Metro Line 2 IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant