Commuters’ canopy

Even if you’re hurrying to catch your train, you can’t fail to notice this sight. A pristine latticed roof and ceiling, a contemporary take on the Victorian canopies that shelter London’s main railway stations.

This is King’s Cross, a place that until recently was shabby, seedy and dodgy after dark. The train station now has a modern, sleek concourse, while the location is being transformed almost beyond recognition.

As for the roof space, it’s even subtly bathed in a lilting pattern of coloured light. I’m glad I came to look and wasn’t rushing to a platform…

Click to enlarge

Tags: architecture, concourse, King's Cross, latticed, London, mauve light, photography, railway station, roof space, transport, travel

14 thoughts on “Commuters’ canopy”

ckponderings on November 5, 2013 at 11:45 said:

Lovely architecture! :)

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- mikeosbornphoto on November 5, 2013 at 12:09 said:
  
  It is indeed, Richard. Have you been to take a look?
  
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  - ckponderings on November 5, 2013 at 14:46 said:
    
    The last time I ended up that way (during my Victoria Line photo shoot) it was still being tidied up.
    
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    - mikeosbornphoto on November 5, 2013 at 14:50 said:
      
      It’s well worth a look. Surprisingly, I was allowed to go about my business without even so much as a look… unlike when I ventured beyond the station.
      
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jdtphotography.co.uk on November 4, 2013 at 09:11 said:

Terrific images Mike and all too often we forget to look up as we discover new locations whether they be interiors or landscape. A roof can frame a shot as much as a tree or cloud…Hope you have a gret week

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- mikeosbornphoto on November 5, 2013 at 11:05 said:
  
  Thank you James! Well, I got a little carried away and captured many images as the colours progressed. In other news, you’ll be impressed that this Londoner made it to the coast yesterday and was flirting with the stormy seas!
  
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  - jdtphotography.co.uk on November 8, 2013 at 17:38 said:
    
    Oh Crikey ! I am so sorry not to have replied sooner Mike, but it is great news as the” Londoner” has gone storm chasing. I hope that you did not get too wet and i certainly look forward to the resulting posts. Have a great weekend whatever you have planned.
    
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    - mikeosbornphoto on November 9, 2013 at 11:35 said:
      
      There was a bit of sea spray but small beer compared to your south coast storms! Have a good weekend and enjoy tomorrow’s predicted fair weather.
      
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Noeline Smith on November 3, 2013 at 16:21 said:

Fabulous! I wish it had been like that when I spent an uncomfortable time waiting for a change of train a few years back!

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- mikeosbornphoto on November 3, 2013 at 16:29 said:
  
  I’m sure! I think the coloured lights helped to lull passengers into a state of calm relaxation – until they become so transfixed they miss their train!
  
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Rachael on November 3, 2013 at 13:10 said:

I keep meaning to get up here. Nice composition!

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- mikeosbornphoto on November 3, 2013 at 14:38 said:
  
  Thanks Rachael. Well it took me a special trip too! The area is buzzing with development and very interesting.
  
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dianaed2013 on November 2, 2013 at 10:31 said:

This is such an amazing structure.

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- mikeosbornphoto on November 2, 2013 at 10:34 said:
  
  It’s quite a sight, Diana. The main supporting strut has a giant poppy on it at the moment.
  
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