Architects have been tackling this plan since 1998; their task included not only the modernization of the station, but also the urban planning solution of the adjacent territory. As a result, King's Cross received a new plaza on the south side, as well as a link to the Kings Cross Central under construction from the north.
The centerpiece of the renovation is the new West Hall, which serves as the main lobby and main operating space. It is attached to the "Western Row" of five buildings; these historic buildings have been carefully restored, and the northern wing, destroyed by the bombing of the Second World War, has been restored for the sake of the integrity of the building's image. The western hall has a semicircular plan and is covered with a semi-dome, which is supported by 16 steel pillars fanning out from the central "funnel" and turning into a network of "ribs" supporting the roof. With a height of 20 m and a length of 150 m, it is the largest station space in Europe with a single span (its area is 7,500 m2).
The snow-white interior contrasts with the historic brick of the old facades that serve as its longitudinal wall. Outside, the West Hall is practically one large, light roof, and its outer walls are just a narrow strip at the bottom of the building.
The historic Western and Eastern "rows" have been updated and adapted to modern needs, and the platforms located between them under two "box" canopies have been restored. The main one is 250 m long, 65 m wide and 22 m high (8 platforms). For the first time, the zones of commuter trains and long-distance trains are closely connected to each other for the convenience of passengers; in addition, King's Cross is now connected to the metro, buses, taxis and St Pancras International Station.
The reconstruction budget was 547 million pounds; it will not only allow better service for the 50 million passengers who use King's Cross each year, but will also stimulate the renewal of the adjacent industrial area.
N. F.
