Eurostar UK Terminal = “YOO-roh-star YOO-kay TUR-mih-nl”

ZJA Architects & Engineers

Client: Eurostar Group, NS Stations, ProRail

Eurostar UK Terminal

The realization of the new Eurostar UK Terminal at Amsterdam Central Station marks an important step in the development of international rail traffic. Connecting London to the continent, Eurostar’s UK Terminal offers a spacious, sustainable, high-quality, and accessible border crossing in the heart of Amsterdam. Carefully integrated in the national monument that is Amsterdam Central Station, this 'terminal of the future' defines a new era for cross-border rail traffic, and brings together various time periods, technologies, aesthetics, and efficiency. Monumental wayfinding The design honours the national monument by weaving it into the spatial experience of the new terminal. Located in the former Amstelpassage, passengers entering the terminal will walk through the entire historical timeline of Pierre Cuypers’ station - from the Cuypers building from 1889 to the IJhal from 2017. The new terminal is three times larger than the previous facility, significantly increasing passenger capacity. Passengers ascend to the platform via escalators and staircases that run along a beautiful historic brick wall. This wall, together with the vaulted ceiling above, not only forms a remarkable architectural element, but also contributes to orientation and wayfinding. Designing for efficiency & inclusivity The design prioritizes operational efficiency, that is enhanced through spatial zoning that streamlines all steps of international travel, including baggage screening and passport control. A clear circulation concept lies at the heart of the layout and is consistently expressed throughout the space. Floor finishes, ceiling islands, and the arrangement of furniture, all support this intuitive flow. Inclusivity, with features such as tactile guidance paths, clear visual cues for passengers with different physical abilities, and silent waiting areas designed to reduce sensory input for neurodiverse travelers, is carefully integrated throughout the design. Architecturally, the design draws inspiration from both the monumental Cuypers building and Eurostar’s brand identity. The interior not only reflects Eurostar’s visual language, but also embodies its core values: boldness, ambition, and care. A standout feature is the striking cloud-inspired ceiling, which incorporates a dynamic lighting system that shifts throughout the day and adapts to the different phases of the boarding process. Sustainable, flexible and future-proof Rather than building from scratch, the design builds upon the existing structure, conserving embodied carbon and minimizing material waste. In keeping with the sustainable spirit of rail travel, the terminal uses robust, circular materials chosen for their durability and low maintenance, ensuring the space will serve generations of passengers to come.