Forestation is a proposal to rewild railway stations across the UK, creating a new interface between community, climate and infrastructure for the 21st century. The project envisions a modular canopy system that can adapt to different station scales, forming two connected environments: a biodiverse woodland landscape above, and a flexible, people-centred undercanopy below.

Above the canopy, passengers, visitors and local residents can enjoy the wildness of a wooded landscape open to the elements, with community-powered gardens and habitats for native species. Below, sheltered spaces accommodate the daily rhythms of travel, work and gathering, integrating amenities such as cycle storage, repair points and social areas.

Nature cleans our air, lifts our mood and strengthens social cohesion. Forestation proposes a regenerative approach to infrastructure, going beyond zero carbon towards carbon capture by increasing tree cover, biodiversity and the use of locally sourced materials. Each station becomes a unique local landmark, co-designed with schools, residents and businesses to reflect local identity and needs.

Network-wide sensors gather data on occupancy and movement to optimise performance, while responsive lighting makes each station a living part of the wider rail ecosystem. Through modular construction and community engagement, Forestation reimagines the station as a catalyst for wellbeing, climate action and connection.

Collaborators: Annette Jezierska (The Future Fox), Petra Marko (Marko & Placemakers), Charlotte Mitchell (QUOD), and Sakthy Selvakumaran (BKwai)

Image Credit: Marko & Placemakers