Two Paris Metro Stations Nominated as World's Most Beautiful
The prestigious Prix de Versailles, which honors outstanding architectural achievements globally, announced its 2025 winners. In the “Passenger Stations” category, two Paris metro stations have been nominated: Saint-Denis – Pleyel and Villejuif – Gustave Roussy.
Villejuif – Gustave Roussy Station
Recently opened on January 18, Villejuif – Gustave Roussy on line 14 is the deepest metro station in France. Designed by Dominique Perrault, this striking metal structure appears lighter than its robust form suggests. The station is bright, stylish, and remarkably quiet.
- Only line 14 currently serves this station, but line 15 south is expected to arrive by late 2026.
- Eight years of construction were needed to complete this impressive underground station.
- The architectural design features a 70-meter diameter cylinder that elegantly reflects light.
- Multiple escalators efficiently handle passenger flow, with an anticipated average of 100,000 passengers daily.
Saint-Denis – Pleyel Station
Saint-Denis – Pleyel, contrasting with Villejuif – Gustave Roussy, showcases a different but equally ambitious architectural style. Both stations highlight French expertise in combining technical innovation with aesthetics and are open for visitors today.
“These two stations bear witness to remarkable architectural ambition and reflect French excellence.”
Both represent outstanding examples of modern metro station design and serve as destinations worth visiting for their unique beauty and functionality.
Author’s summary: Two newly designed Paris metro stations, Villejuif – Gustave Roussy and Saint-Denis – Pleyel, exemplify innovative architecture and engineering, making them contenders for the world’s most beautiful stations.