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Los Angeles Metro Rail Redline

Vermont / Santa Monica Station
Los Angeles, California

As an integral part of the urban fabric of Los Angeles, Metro Rail Stations are both the same and different at once.   Standardization of equipment leads to economy in maintenance as well as initial construction.   Yet the unique expressions created by various Architect/Artist teams demand creativity in application of this equipment.

The dramatic entry into the Vermont/Santa Monica station is a visual beacon to the neighborhood requiring subtle lighting treatment (bright enough to see from a distance but not to be distracting).   Standard equipment was placed into architectural niches in the supporting fin walls to light the canopy and provide easy maintenance.

In order to prevent a 'parking lot' of poles to light the plaza, the team utilized advanced exterior lighting calculations software to place taller lighting poles at the back of the site. Consideration of the surrounding neighborhood suggested the use of several small sources on each pole for sharp cutoff glare control and an even 'blanket' of light for enhanced safety.  

Our experiences on this station as well as the Hollywood/Highland station have contributed to an improved set of systemwide standards created for Metro Rail by Horton Lees Brogden Lighting Design.

This project's lighting design has been recognized with an IES/IIDA Award of Merit and the U.S. Department of Transportation Design for Transportation National Awards Merit Award.