Drammen Station, Norway

Drammen station has undergone an extensive upgrade with new platforms and refurbished underpasses. Lighting design has been a central element, developed in close collaboration between lighting designers, architects, and the client Bane NOR. Throughout the process, the lighting team worked closely with the architects to ensure that illumination not just enhances, but becomes an integrated part of the architectural design concept. Bane NOR has been actively involved in aesthetic and technical decisions.

The main objective was to create lighting that offers warmth and comfort, accentuating the station’s architectural features. Light is used to create depth in areas with wooden slats which the project features extensively. Meticulous detailing ensures discrete placement of the fixtures so that the hardware remains hidden. This approach is particularly striking for the platform roofs, where luminaires are barely noticeable. As darkness falls, the lighting amplifies the warm quality of the wooden slats, transforming the ceiling into a soft, glowing canopy. The warm tones of the wood temper the cooler steel and glass elements, softening the infrastructural character and creates a welcoming atmosphere for the commuters.

Universal design principles have guided all solutions. Elevation changes are clearly marked, and the station environment is easy to navigate. Consistent lighting principles create visual coherence and recognizability, supporting safety and intuitive wayfinding for all user groups, regardless of physical ability. Especial attention to detail has been paid to the underpass and between platforms in this regard. Durable, high‑quality products with selected optics and color temperatures ensure a sustainable installation with long lifespan, reliability, and minimal maintenance.

Along the central spine of the platform roofs, runs a semi-transparent polycarbonate strip that lets daylight through. At night, the spine is illuminated, highlighting the roofs’ wave‑like form when viewed from afar. This adds depth and warmth beneath the roofs, complementing the golden tone of the wooden slats while maintaining neutral light on the platform surfaces.

The elevators feature cool‑toned lighting that contrasts with the warm roofs’ illumination. The color tones shift subtly during sunrise and sunset, adding dynamic variation while paying homage to the unique Nordic light.

Riverside promenade revitalization was also part of the project, providing direct access to the platforms. Similar “invisible” lighting strategy were applied, with discreet fixtures illuminating the walkway. A retaining wall, partially clad in wooden slats, is backlit with hidden luminaires, creating a calm and visually refined riverside environment while ensuring safe movement alongside the water’s edge.

Test installations have been crucial in optimizing luminaire placement, minimizing glare, and ensuring alignment with the design concept. This applies to the platform roofs, promenade, elevator, underpasses and slatted walls. Despite structural constraints, the existing underpass has been significantly improved through integrated wall and ceiling lighting that highlights historic details and enhances safety.

A thorough design process has been essential to the project’s success. Functionality, technical quality, sustainability, and universal accessibility have been central priorities throughout the work. The station now stands as a new landmark in Drammen, with lighting design playing a defining role in its strong nighttime identity.