The imposing grid shell, which now stands exposed, is 8.5 m high and measures 32 x 28 m at its base. It consists of a complex steel structure weighing almost 110 tons and featuring 403 precisely milled nodes. 725 triangular glass panes ensure transparency and create a bright, friendly atmosphere in the light-flooded south entrance of the new station.
The special features lie in the delicate triangular support structure with sophisticated profile geometry and complex 3D-milled nodes. Due to the flat glass panes and the dome-shaped geometry, each component was custom-made.
DB Projekt Stuttgart–Ulm GmbH
This is how the construction is built
The glass construction rests on delicate, triangular extruded steel profiles. Their precisely manufactured wedge-shaped geometry gives the structure a special lightness.
When viewed from below against the sky, the profiles seem to disappear almost completely. Thanks to their pointed silhouette, the structure visually merges with the sky, making it appear even slimmer and more transparent.
The structural design of the grid shell in Stuttgart's new main station requires the highest level of engineering expertise. The structure has to withstand its own weight, wind, snow, and extraordinary pressure waves caused by trains entering and leaving the station, as well as large temperature differences. With a surface temperature ranging from -15 degrees Celsius in winter to +65 degrees Celsius in summer, the grid shell, which is around 32 meters long, expands by 31 millimeters.
The design was based on a digital calculation model that takes all load cases into account and provides precise evidence of component stresses and deformations. Particular attention was paid to the bearings: 27 spherical bearings allow freedom of movement and reliably transfer high forces into the concrete shell roof. Thanks to their spherical contact surface, the bearings allow simultaneous movements in several degrees of freedom.
Installation of the grid shell
DB Projekt Stuttgart–Ulm GmbH
The grid shell was constructed under a huge tent. This ensured the right temperature for welding and coating and protected the installation team from wind and weather. Piece by piece, the shell structure took shape: After the design process, the individual segments of the grid shell and the laminated safety glass were manufactured. Installation began in September 2024 with the lifting of the 36 segments and their precise alignment using installation supports.
This was followed by welding, glazing of the grid shell and sealing. With the exception of the door systems, the vertical façade with 44 individual panes has also been completed. These will be completed later so that materials can continue to be delivered to the underground station without any problems.
The second grid shell has also been completed and the protective enclosure is currently being dismantled. Installation work on the grid shell on the Bonatz Tower will begin shortly.
In addition to the grid shells, the characteristic “light eyes” also provide significant architectural accents.
About seele
The seele Group, headquartered in Gersthofen, Bavaria, creates spectacular building envelopes and tailor-made facade solutions worldwide. The group employs 1,000 people worldwide and generates a turnover of 350 million euros per year.
DB Projekt Stuttgart–Ulm GmbH
