"Bahnhof der Zukunft" (Station of the Future) is an international and interdisciplinary research project commissioned by the German Centre for Rail Traffic Research (DZSF) at the Federal Railway Authority (EBA). The study explores how railway stations can evolve from transport facilities into user-oriented, multimodal mobility hubs that combine public transport, cycling, sharing services and high-quality public space.

Gateways contributed the architectural and spatial design perspective within the research consortium. Its role focused on translating empirical findings about passenger needs into concrete spatial requirements, design principles and future scenarios. A central part of this work was the development of idealised user journeys through the station. By analysing key moments such as arrival, orientation, transfer, waiting and responding to disruption, Gateways helped identify where spatial design, information, services and mobility offers need to interact most effectively.

Building on these insights, Gateways supported the development, testing and visualisation of future station concepts and measures. The design work explored how architecture, wayfinding, intermodal connections, waiting areas, safety, accessibility and environmental quality can be conceived as one coherent and integrated system rather than as isolated elements. Gateways also produced a substantial share ofthe project’s visual material, providing the illustrations for the documentation of Key Measures for the Station of the Future (see document “Maßnahmensteckbriefe”)

The resulting research combines a future vision with a catalogue of 32 measures, including ten prioritised measures for user-friendly multimodal stations. Through its role, Gateways helped bridge social research and practical station design, turning user needs into tangible, spatially integrated solutions that can inform future station planning, refurbishment and implementation.