On the occasion of the implementation of free public transportation and as part of the urban redevelopment project for the city center and the Place de la Comédie, the redesign of the Comédie tram station was entrusted to 5•5.

More than a station, an entrance to the square

By reinterpreting a row of columns echoing the neoclassical architectural heritage of the city and drawing inspiration from a peristyle for a building, the six columns of the Comédie station mark the entrance to this square for travelers. More than just standard urban furniture, the new station was conceived not only as a passage but also as a true gateway. Now, passengers can directly disembark from the tram while accessing the square, without circumventing cumbersome facilities that previously occupied the platform both physically and visually.

A eraser drawing

Reducing the number of ticket purchase kiosks, eliminating advertising displays, and removing often vandalized vertical walls, the shelters were designed with simplicity. Beyond their symbolic dimension, these public facilities were designed for maximum durability. The sets of tubes composing the columns are functional, detachable for maintenance, and integrate rainwater drains as well as electrical supplies, concealing the necessary equipment for the proper functioning of the station.

Entirely made of marine stainless steel to withstand the local climate, the station integrates into the 21st-century heritage of Montpellier, reflecting the colors of its environment, the atmospheres of the time, and the activity of the square, day and night, with lighting that echoes the festive atmosphere of the place.

A sustainable project in service of public policy

This project emphasizes the importance and consideration to be given to public transportation, symbolizing the implementation of free transportation for Montpellier Métropole Méditerranée, a pioneer in adopting ambitious transport solutions to combat climate change.

This station is the first step in a larger program of the project management mission for the redevelopment of public spaces in the Comédie Esplanade, of which 5•5 is a part alongside Manon Bonicel and Henri Bava of the Agence TER, the lead contractor for the consortium, on behalf of SA3M.

Our commitments to the project:

• Encouraging the use of public transportation
• Supporting a community in the development of its public spaces
• Identification with the local architectural heritage
• Design with flexibility
• Production in marine-grade stainless steel to withstand the local climate