First Prize - Johan Récen Larsson

Project for a gas station in Bruges (Maalse Steenweg 325) by Johan Recén Larsson

"The proposal is for an upgrade of an existing gas station located in the charming city of Bruges. The aim is to enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the gas station while maintaining its historical significance and cultural relevance. To achieve this, the design has been thoughtfully crafted to fit in with the traditional architecture of the city, using elements that are typical to Bruges such as the Stepped gable and the gothic four centered arch. These features not only provide a seamless integration with the local surroundings but also add a touch of character and charm to the gas station.

In terms of construction, the gas station is built with locally-sourced bricks, and fortified by blue stone, which ensures that the structure is not only robust but also sustainable. With this design, the gas station is expected to last for generations, and its open structure allows for flexibility and adaptability to changing functions and uses over time. The open structure consists of three lanes, which can be easily complemented by a fourth to host an interior shop and other services.

Overall, the proposal for the gas station upgrade in Bruges is not only a functional solution but also a creative and innovative approach to preserving the city's cultural heritage. The design incorporates both traditional and modern elements to create a structure that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and in harmony with its surroundings."

Third Prize - Conor Lynch

Design for a new petrol station in Ropley, Hampshire by Conor Lynch

"Continuing local architectural traditions, the station is in red brick with stone dressings.

The forecourt shelter was inspired by the great Victorian railway canopies and has decorative wrought iron details which celebrate the car (such as the spokes of a wheel)

This building is not married to its intended function and can therefore adapt to changing uses. If the petrol station should ever close, one can easily imagine a café or farm shop with seating beneath the canopy.

As seen in the design, there are two entrances to the shop with the till at the centre. The central bay window allows till service directly to the forecourt."

Second Prize - Joao Batista

Station project in Portugal
by Joao Batista

"Petrol stations are something we see very frequently, we pass by them every day, but we pay little to no attention. Their designs are usually drab and mass produced so they can quickly spread, but they leave behind very repetitive and single-use places, that only a handful of years later, already look and feel outdated.

The place I picked is at the entrance of the town of Cuba, Beja, located in the peaceful region of Alentejo, Portugal. The existing structure belongs to Galp (their logo is present in the drawings) and for the main town entrance through the national road it doesn’t give the town a good look, especially the service shop of the gas station. I took in the existing dimensions of the plot, as well as the size and number of pumps, since this is one out of two gas stations in the whole town that serve the population.

To improve it, I took inspiration in the vernacular architecture of the region, doing so provided the building with beauty and identity, with the use of limewash, bands of color, arches and ceilings with exposed wood beams. The building ideally should also use local materials, not only would it be more sustainable in the building process, it would also prolong the life-span of the building in design terms (the existing building, when it stops being a petrol station only has one destiny, demolition, the proposed design with the use of local idioms and flexibility can easily be adapted to another use, like a house or restaurant).

The building also follows the local climate with the use of a large porch, as it provides shade and protection for harsh winds. Alentejo is a region known for scorching temperatures in the summer and strong gusts in the winter. Outside (only visible in the floorplan) I adapted an existing parking space with a net into a pergola with charging stations for electric vehicles."

Project by Matheus Teixeira

Project for a petrol station in Versailles by Matheus Teixeira

"Situated at 15 Rue des États Généraux, near the city hall of Versailles, a couple of minutes from the Château, the existing petrol station doesn't quite live up to the expectations of the surroundings. The project tries to reimagine the building as blending in with the context, using textures, colours and elements found in Versailles, such as the brick walls mixed with yellow coating, and the mansard roof.The ground floor would be a more generous space in order to shelter the cars while the customers fill up. Inside the building there's space for a boulangerie or a small convenience store and at the side, garage spaces for other services. The upper floors could host the local management of the station or even housing. The free space around the building allows for a nice perspective of the ensemble that enhances this important entryway to the city."