#9 Norwich Bus Station

Architects: NPS

Location: Norwich, Norfolk, UK

Norwich's bus station may not seem very design-savvy from ground level, however a bird's eye view gives this shelter a completely different perspective.

Designed by Michael Spicer whilst at NPS, the shelter forms a leaf-like shape that provides cover to a large surface area. NPS has used a freestanding steel canopy with aluminium panels and translucent fabric to cover the public concourse, travel centre and passenger islands. Additional glass areas protect users from the weather, making this a sophisticated and functional structure.

The purpose of the fabric integrated into the canopy is to provide natural ventilation and allow daylight to filter into the concourse.

The building was completed in July 2005, ensuring this area of the historic city is conserved in parallel with its contemporary spearheaded shape.

Image credit: Pierre Terre