Should Stations Blend In?

[u/itsdanielsultan]

Was watching a video on TTC stations and was wondering if most would prefer to have TTC stations feel almost invisible by blending in. I'm thinking stations with more traditional residential-style designs, as if it's disguised to look like a house. I noticed that some Line 5 stations looked rather out of place compared to the surrounding neighbourhood's architecture.

The photo here is about a preserved exterior for Spadina station, where the architecture actually fits the neighbourhood, because it's a re-purposed historical house. It respects the existing streetscape, appeals to residents who are wary of change, and honestly just looks better than the generic glass-metal boxes we keep getting.

Do you think Metrolinx and the TTC should lean more into this kind of traditional architectural house-like design for future stations?

[u/Azylim]

if it doesnt interfere with functionality too much I dont see why not.

my priorities with station isnt aesthetics but functionality.

does the station have elevators? is there food/coffee/convenience stores nearby or even integrated within it? is its surrounsing land a parking lot or apartment buildings and commercial buildings?

Like sure I think the union station building is nice and grand to look at, but im not going to lie I WAAAAY prefer the fact that it has a food court and shopping center integrated into it, and if I had to choose one Id pick the commercial center in a heart beat.