(rshsdepot) Anchorage, AK

["Bernie Wagenblast" <brwagenblast_@_comcast.net>]

Architect honored for Alaska Railroad depot design

San Francisco-based KMD recently received an American Institute of
Architects (AIA) MIPIM Award for an Alaska Railroad station design that KMD
characterizes as an interpretation of "the fascination of the Aurora
Borealis."

The $28 million Alaska Railroad Bill Sheffield Depot serves as a "colorful
beacon that mirrors the spectacular patterns of glimmering lights in the
sky," according to a prepared statement. Skylights span across the 25-foot
high vaulted ceilings and capture the "magnificent patterns of light." At
night, smooth aluminum panels that frame the towering glass window walls
create "a warm glow that constantly changes" as passenger and visitors near
the station, the architects believe.

"The rail station brings the intrigue of the sky into a welcoming center to
greet and tantalize visitors with the natural splendors of Alaska," said
Herb McLaughlin, KMD's design director.

And the tunnel linking the rail station to Ted Stevens Anchorage
International Airport offers a thematic "sky" experience: As travelers step
onto the 154-foot, two-way people mover, shafts of tri-colored light (and a
little fiber-optic technology) simulate the Northern Lights across the
arched ceiling.

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The Railroad Station Historical Society maintains a database of existing
railroad structures at: http://www.rrshs.org

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End of RSHSDepot Digest V1 #897
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The Railroad Station Historical Society maintains a database of existing
railroad structures at: http://www.rrshs.org