This architectural history thesis looks at the interrelationship between transport, land-use and architecture. A systematic comparison of the these three systems at key time periods contributed to the collective puzzle of answering the main research question; ‘How has the evolution of the transport system, with main focus on the railway system, impacted the development of the city Lille throughout time?’.

The transport systems of major European cities have played a vital role in their economic and urban development, forming networks that facilitate the flow of energy, people, and goods. Lille, located near the French-Belgian border, has two stations from different railway eras: Lille-Flandres (since 1846) and Lille-Europe (since 1990). The transformation of these stations has been driven by capacity demands and the need to adapt to rapid growth and limited space. Lille-Europe, in particular, has acted as a catalyst for the city’s economic transformation from a secondary to a tertiary sector.

The architecture of the station areas reflects the interplay between local and global contexts, with Lille-Flandres embodying a fusion of Flemish, French, and Parisian styles, while Lille-Europe represents a modern and cross-border vision. This architectural evolution sparks a debate between preserving local identity and embracing universal design principles. The station areas serve as a visual expression of Lille’s dynamic evolution and the changing nature of transportation systems.