Mascot Station

Originally designed by our studio in 2000 as part of the Airport Link line, DesignInc’s upgrade of Mascot Station builds on a legacy of transport architecture spanning more than two decades. Reflecting the rapid densification and transformation of Sydney’s inner south, the increasing demand on Mascot Station has seen it become one of the network’s busiest stops.

Partnering with Downer, Aurecon and Transport for NSW, DesignInc has delivered a new second vertical entrance along Bourke Street—integrating a generous entrance, two banks of escalators, a lift, and a revitalised urban square. The result unlocks a vital connection to the surrounding residential developments, caters to the increase in commuter numbers by redistributing pedestrian flows, and improves access, safety, and legibility.

Location: Dharawal Country
Mascot, New South Wales
Client: Downer, Aurecon + Transport for NSW
Value: $39M
Year: 2024
Project Contact: Garth Davies
Photography: Sandor Duzs
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Beneath the surface, DesignInc designed a new structure adjacent to the existing underground station ‘box’, creating a dramatic break-through at the concourse level. Passengers now move through this newly excavated volume where innovation shines through the excavated underground façade. Critical engineering challenges shaped the process, including poor ground conditions and proximity to adjacent apartment towers with deep basements. The solution demanded precision and creativity in reaching a solution that suits passenger experiences, rail operations and the locale.

Embracing the earth’s raw character, the design opts for a robust low-finish wall treatment that speak to the subterranean nature of the extension. In doing so, a tactile, honest design language was created that contrasts and complements the more polished elements of the original build.

This ‘build-less’ approach underscores the studio’s sustainability agenda which includes a Sustainability Action Plan (SAP) and Climate Active-certification nationwide. By removing the traditional lining to the underground walls, the space inside the new station is maximised while minimising the use of materials, including cladding, framing and the like. Exposed concrete walls were cast against the earth and once set, the interior excavated out. The resulting pattern on the concrete walls is a product of the diaphragm wall process and soil composition, which creates a large open underground space that expresses the nature of the earth around it. Dramatic lighting enhances the commuter experience and interpretive artworks honour Mascot’s rich aviation heritage.

An integrated architecture, landscape and urban design approach not only improved commuter movement but also reimagined the surrounding public realm. The previously underutilised plaza is now activated with seating, lighting and greenery. A shared path and pedestrian crossing are accommodated along Bourke Street, enhanced by generous planting beds and new street trees.

Mascot Station is a model of contemporary station design that meets today’s transport demands while enhancing the urban fabric. The project reflects DesignInc’s longstanding commitment to shaping movement through design that is human scaled, technically robust, and responsive to place.