Yongning Station: A Unique Urban Mini Complex

Yijia Hu's Innovative Design Combines Public Amenities with Leisure and Exhibition Spaces

Yongning Station was inspired by Hu's childhood memories of the area, particularly the fleeting moments of play by the river and the ever-changing scenery. The design encapsulates these memories, creating a space that is both functional and evocative. The station is primarily a public toilet facility, but it also incorporates leisure and exhibition spaces, offering a unique blend of public and private spaces.

The station's design is characterized by its openness, a concept that was central to Hu's approach. The site is located at the transition point between a landscape rambling-way and an urban fast road. The design opens up a visual channel between the city and the landscape, forming an 'eight' shape. This openness is evident in the public exhibition hall, which offers an unobstructed view of the river, and the public toilet space, which is more introverted yet still integrated into the overall design.

One of the unique features of the Yongning Station is the use of a "screen" as a key element in organizing space and incorporating scenery. In the exhibition hall, the thickness of the "screen" is transformed into a three-dimensional "screen niche" of its own system. The physical part conceals service functions such as sales, washing, and storage, and the white window holes become the eyes to seize the changing scenery of nature.

The public toilet is the core interpretation of the concept of "returning to public private space". Internally, the plane is arranged according to the modulus of 300mm, and functional modules such as wall column network, bathroom equipment, HVAC and exhaust air are installed on this chassis. The standard modular unit limits the body space of the user's smallest unit to minimize the private space.

The design of the Yongning Station posed several challenges, particularly in combining the openness of the public area with the privacy of the toilet area. However, Hu and his team were able to overcome these challenges through innovative design solutions, such as the use of a "screen" to organize space and incorporate scenery.

The Yongning Station is a testament to the power of innovative design in transforming public spaces. This project was awarded Silver in A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2020, a prestigious accolade that recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs. The award is a testament to Hu's outstanding expertise and innovation, and his ability to create designs that introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.