Streetcar Shelter

This project is the design of a pedestrian shelter for the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) at the beginning of the St. Charles Streetcar line: Carrollton Avenue at Claiborne. The concept is to create a simple form with some visual interest that complements the historic streetcars and provides an amenity to passengers as they are waiting at this location. The design evokes the traditional concept of shelter with its pitched roof, while the triangular shapes provide a dynamic emphasis.

The shelter matches the length of the streetcar and a lower pitched roof extension overlaps the streetcar top, providing rain protection for those boarding or disembarking. The upper surface unobtrusively houses photovoltaic panels that provide nighttime LED lighting. The Y-shaped steel columns relate to the catenary supports along the streetcar route.

Forms and materials are chosen for durability and low maintenance requirements. The primary construction is of powder-coat finished steel that resists deterioration and vandalism. The roof is metal with two colored translucent panels that complete the roof enclosure. The intention is to create a long-lived structure with an iconic character that also defers to and complements the historic Perley Thomas streetcars.