Eurostar UK, a terminal in a historical monument

The new Eurostar UK Terminal, located in the heart of a national monument such as Amsterdam Central Station in the Netherlands, represents a fusion of heritage and modernity, where the past is recovered through contemporary design.

The terminal, conceived by Superimpose Architecture and ZJA, is delicately integrated into the complex renovation process of the iconic station designed by Pierre Cuypers in 1889. As Ruben Bergambagt (Partner Architect at Superimpose Architecture) and Mallika Arora (Architect at ZJA) explain, the aim was to ‘restore the lost monumental layers to their former glory, making them an integral part of the spatial experience’. Thus, users crossing the station also symbolically cross through time, moving from the 19th to the 21st century.

A terminal of the future

In addition to quadrupling the space of the former terminal, the new facility is equipped with advanced technologies, control areas and a user-centred experience clearly designed for the traveller of the future.

One of the standout elements is the ‘cloud ceiling’, a dynamic lighting system that projects different atmospheres depending on the time of day or the boarding process. The interior design is inspired by the connection between land and sky, evoking the Dutch and British landscapes of the Golden Age.

The ceiling design with its various textures, colours and materials, not only contributes to the visual aesthetics, but also plays a key role in the user's travel experience by creating a pleasant and well-organised space.

The AERO Bench in dialogue with the architecture

In such a remarkable setting, the furniture had to match the surroundings. Superimpose Architecture opted for the AERO Bench by Sellex as an essential part of the terminal's visual language. Nearly thirty benches have been installed in different configurations (5 and 6 seaters), all of them with a selfstanding structure in natural aluminium, natural oak seat and backrest pads, aluminium armrests and integrated electrification.

The choice of AERO as the terminal seating was no accident. According to the Superimpose Architecture team, the AERO Bench fitted perfectly with their vision of ‘a space defined by clarity, calm and cohesion’. Its elegant and understated profile echoes the minimalist character of the new terminal, bringing warmth and sophistication to the whole.

Beyond its aesthetics, , AERO was also appreciated for its ability to embody the new brand identity of Eurostar: ‘The subtle lines and refined presence of the AERO Bench complement and elevate the visual language of the terminal, while reflecting the dynamic curve of Eurostar's new “Spark” logo,’ the studio explains.

In addition to its visual integration, the AERO Bench meets the functional needs of the space: comfort, durability and accessibility. The installed units include integrated electrification, allowing travellers to charge their devices while waiting, and are arranged to support both individual and collective use.

This project is yet another example of how design and engineering can work in harmony with heritage. A terminal designed for the future, yet rooted in the past. And in this delicate balance, the AERO Bench finds its natural place.

We are grateful for the trust placed by SV when it came to equipping the Eurostar UK Terminal, as well as for many other projects over the years.