PTA Information Pods

The Public Transport Authority (PTA) information centre explores the capacity of architecture to create a centralised identity for the metropolitan public transport network. Dwarfed by the 140 William Street tower building, the two pods hover precariously above the entrance to the Perth underground rail station providing a brief moment of stoppage and clarity contrasting with the visual chaos of the existing retail context. Identity and recognition is achieved through the use of colour and form. Transperth Green is applied to the exterior aluminium shell of each pod providing an immediate identity to the transport network. The clear structural glazing front elevation exposes the activity of the information centre to the underground station entry. Internally the colours continue with individual network line colours, these cabinets contain the corresponding coloured brochures for each of the transport lines. All other surfaces are purposely white, sculptured and precise. The design seeks a formal clarity that is unapparent in the surrounding context. It responds to the dynamic movement of passing people and commuters. It creates a sense of intrigue when approaching from all directions; the underbelly gently pushes down to enforce a brief distraction from the surrounding context.