On the one hand Xi’An is called “the Eastern End of the Silk Road”,but on the other hand it is actually a gateway to a whole new world and a place where cultures meet. A place where tradition, nature and growth have thrived for centuries.For that reason the design concept behind the new train station is inspired by the beauty and lightness of the silk fabric. The gentle contours of the traditional Chinese roof architype, are covered by layers that filter direct sunlight and at the same time provide enough transparency to the surrounding. And under the canopy of the “silk cover” lies a structure of floating floors supported by volumes. Offices, shops, meeting rooms and hotel under one roof provide the passengers with the full range of activities that the modern fast passed lifestyle requires. Arranged as rational grid organization and inspired by the ancient Xi’An urban development, they take shape around the great hall of the station.