London Underground's Hounslow East Tube Station was redeveloped in order to upgrade staff accommodation and improve the station facilities.

The new station features twin barrel shaped roofs of timber lamella construction. The resulting building is an example of how good design works but excellent design also gives pleasure. The architectural concept design was to create a sweeping 'green embankment' of a roof leading the passengers from the street, up to the higher platform level.

The main entrance and accommodation are in the larger Westbound platform building (maximum footprint dimensions of 45m length by 18m width), with a smaller Eastbound platform building opposite (22m length and 10m width). Both roofs are barrel vaults in sectional shape but irregular on plan to suit the site area.

From the outset timber was the preferred material for the roof, being eminently appropriate for the suburban setting. Timber’s environmental credentials and the potential to create interesting structural forms were also important considerations. The design team were able to convince London Underground of the longevity and robustness of the design.