Creating a streamlined terminal on a constrained central London site, the International Terminal at Waterloo facilitated journeys for 15 million international passengers each year at its peak and is now recognised as an iconic transport interchange.

Within a superstructure of glass and steel, the multi-faceted terminus houses all the requirements for international travel, including full security screening, immigration and customs border control. The resulting landmark design heralded the advent of cross-channel rail travel through a suitably contemporary monument to the new railway age.

Beneath the architecturally significant roof structure, an equally important two-storey viaduct supports the platforms and incorporates two floors of passenger facilities.

In particular, the separate levels for departures and arrivals was an innovative arrangement to give passengers a clearly articulated sense of direction.

Admiration for the terminal is reflected in the high profile awards it received, including the RIBA President’s Building of the Year and the Mies van der Rohe Award for European Architecture.

The curvature of the terminal’s roof took shape early in the design process, requiring an innovative system of struts that were standardised and able to be produced en masse, and yet adjustable to their position.

It is an inspirational yet functional design, harnessing qualities of space and light to practical features, pleasing to the most discerning customer.

Alan Futter
International Terminals Director, European Passenger Services