Image: Gadigal Station. Photo: Supplied.
Sydney’s newest metro stations are continuing to rack up global recognition, with Waterloo and Gadigal stations both taking home top honours at one of the world’s most prestigious architecture awards.
The two stations were awarded Gold in the Transport category at the 2026 World Architecture News (WAN) Awards, placing them firmly on the international design map and reinforcing Sydney’s growing reputation for ambitious, design-led public infrastructure.
It’s a major moment not just for the architects behind the projects, but for the city itself — where transport spaces are increasingly being reimagined as civic landmarks rather than purely functional hubs.
Waterloo Station, designed by John McAslan + Partners in collaboration with Woods Bagot, was recognised for its integration into the surrounding urban environment and its thoughtful approach to community connection.
It described as “a high-quality project with a strong integration of art, while remaining very clear in terms of navigation and restrained in its design.”
Meanwhile, Gadigal Station — designed by Foster + Partners alongside COX Architecture — impressed judges with its striking architectural identity and seamless passenger experience, blending large-scale infrastructure with a refined, contemporary aesthetic.
Both stations form part of the broader Sydney Metro network, which has been positioned as a city-shaping project.
Gadigal’s growing global reputation
For Gadigal Station, the WAN Gold award is just the latest in a growing list of international accolades.
In 2025, the station was named one of the world’s most beautiful passenger stations by the Prix Versailles awards — a global recognition celebrating excellence in architectural design.
That same year, it was also included among a select group dubbed the “Magnificent Seven” most beautiful stations worldwide, further cementing its status as a standout piece of contemporary infrastructure.
Gadigal station takes it name from sitting on Gadigal land, and station’s design has been widely praised for its integration of public art and acknowledgement of the Traditional Custodians of the land.
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