Dekton lights up Nagoya's metro

In Nagoya, one of Japan's most vibrant cities, a new benchmark in public infrastructure design is hidden. The Kamimaezu metro station, recently renovated by Ichikawa Michio Architects, has transformed from a daily transit space into a refined, bright, and sophisticated environment. This change is largely due to the incorporation of Dekton by Cosentino, whose durability and aesthetic versatility have redefined the experience of thousands of passengers passing through the station every day.

Underground stations are often associated with dark environments, where artificial lighting is key to ensuring user safety and comfort. At Kamimaezu, the studio aimed to radically change this perception. As the architects explain: “The most interesting feature of the project is the use of Dekton Helena, a surface that reflects light and brings brightness to the underground environment. This design not only transformed the station into a more welcoming and positive space but also allowed for a reduction in the number of light fixtures without compromising clarity.”

Dekton Helena, inspired by natural marbles, provides an elegant finish and contributes to more efficient energy use by enhancing existing light.

The choice of materials was the result of a thorough evaluation. “Dekton was selected after an extensive assessment of alternatives due to its wide range of polished colour options (something rare among manufacturers), its superior durability compared to conventional ceramic tiles, which had shown cracks in other metro stations, and its proven performance in large public infrastructure projects.”

Although Dekton Helena is the star of the project, the Kamimaezu station incorporates a wide palette of Dekton colours: Keranium, Taga, Arga, Spectra, Lunar, Halo, and Kreta. The selection balances functionality and design: “White was essential to illuminate the underground space, but Helena stood out against plain white options thanks to its elegant marble-like veining, which adds subtle character without overwhelming the environment. The other colours offer a unique mix that balances the space.”

Each tone brings a distinct nuance that enriches the whole. From dark and sober finishes like Dekton Keranium to lighter and brighter ones like Dekton Halo or Dekton Lunar, the colour composition creates a dynamic and appealing journey.

One of the major challenges in underground infrastructure is maintenance. The transit of thousands of people and the presence of metallic particles in the air subject the cladding to constant wear. Dekton has proven to be an effective solution. In addition to withstanding intensive use, the surfaces maintain their appearance intact, always offering a sense of cleanliness, which is challenging in a place like the metro.

The Kamimaezu case demonstrates how the right choice of materials can make a difference in a public project. In this case, the combination of durability, easy maintenance, and aesthetic richness of Dekton has enabled Ichikawa Michio Architects to create a space that not only meets functional requirements but also inspires those who pass through it.