Re:fresh* : refreshment and retail strategy for Gautrain stations

Abstract

The focus of this study is the provision of refreshment, retail and supporting facilities at Gautrain stations. This forms part of an overarching strategy called for the deployment of refreshment, retail and supporting facilities at stations. For the purposes of this thesis, the concept of refreshment focuses on the aspects of bodily / physiological and mental refreshment, whether this be through sale of beverages and snacks or distribution and availability of information, news and mental stimulation through design. The strategy is explored in more detail through the design of a multifunctional kiosk for medium term deployment at any of the Gautrain stations. The Hatfield Gautrain station building interior forms the backdrop of an the in depth design and technical development of the intervention. Important factors in this scheme is the identifying of the most popular refreshment and ancillary facilities at other similar train stations as well as the integration of such facilities into the existing Gautrain system identity. The design approach is formulated on the three levels of scale and revolves around the creation of places and the railway station as public meeting place; tectonic expression and various factors relating to cost and sustainability. The aim is to contribute to the understanding of user needs in terms of refreshment, retail and ancillary behaviours (e.g. access to info) at transport interchanges. The thesis contributes to the general field of the environment and cultural landscapes as applicable to the discipline of interior architecture.