The project was launched with an international competition in 2001. From 70 entries, Darmstadt-based architect and artist Heike Klussmann were selected to design the project. In the award-winning design, architecture and art are inseparable, complementing one another as they extend as an ensemble from the surface down to the train platforms. The design is like a snake winding its way through the soil and widening out at the stations. In the transition from surface to underground, identifiable “cut spaces” were created on the wall, each of them distinguishable with a unique identity (2700 different formats).
The skilful interplay of engineering expertise and art has succeeded in making the Wehrhahn-Line an exemplary and innovative contribution to the city infrastructure, one that now offers Düsseldorf’s residents and visitors an exceptional opportunity to “experience space” in local urban transit.
The art concept is based on an outstanding construction of precast elements in high-performance concrete cast stone, with individually computer integrated manufacturing.