Eastern Ticket Hall

Art, Precision, and Infrastructure: Design Rationale Ltd at Farringdon Station’s Eastern Ticket Hall

As part of the ambitious Crossrail programme - now proudly running as the Elizabeth Line - Farringdon Station has emerged as a shining example of infrastructure that not only functions with modern efficiency but also embodies rich artistic and architectural expression.

A key figure behind this transformation is British artist Simon Periton, whose integrated artwork Spectre adorns the Eastern Ticket Hall. Bringing this vision to life required more than artistic imagination; it demanded technical expertise, material precision, and adaptive problem-solving.

This is where Design Rationale stepped in, with Dean White leading the design execution to deliver the full architectural metalwork and glass solutions that transformed vision into a physical, functional, and beautiful reality.

A Collaborative Vision Between Art and Architecture

Spectre is not simply an overlay to an existing structure - it is deeply embedded into the architectural skin of Farringdon Station’s eastern entrance. From façade to fittings, the artwork weaves itself through the identity of the building, wrapping the structure in layers of metaphor and material design inspired by the historic ironwork of nearby Smithfield Market.

To translate this complex design into built form, Design Rationale collaborated closely with trusted manufacturers. Each element - from digitally printed glass panels to bespoke metal framing - was fabricated and finished to the highest standard. Every component was engineered to reflect Periton’s detailed designs, with no detail too small to matter. All materials, from metalwork to glass, were installed to the highest quality standards, including integrated security features.

Dean White: Leading Design with Purpose

At the heart of this delivery was Dean White, lead designer at Design Rationale for the Eastern Ticket Hall. He not only oversaw the architectural detailing but also worked hands-on with fabricators, installation teams, and client stakeholders to ensure Periton’s vision for Spectre was both respected and precisely executed.

One of the most impressive and iconic features - the great sliding gate at the entrance - exemplifies the fusion of art and architecture. Carefully designed to align with the Spectre aesthetic, it acts as both a security mechanism and an artistic gesture, reflecting the station’s unique character.

Dean’s leadership was especially critical during the construction finishing phase, when on-site design adjustments and real-time problem-solving were essential. As changes unfolded during the build process, he ensured that the design intent remained intact, accommodating refinements without compromise.

Reflecting on the outcome, Dean White notes:

“I’m very proud of how the design finished. We made sure every change enhanced the final product without losing what made it special.”

Spectre in Glass: A Meticulous Installation

Bringing Spectre to life required a medium that could match its ambition. The central canvas was digitally printed artwork on architectural glass - a delicate, high-spec process requiring absolute precision.

Design Rationale ensured the printing, framing, and mounting of each panel was carried out under rigorous quality control. Patterns were aligned seamlessly, and each piece was designed for durability in the high-traffic station environment.

From structural fixings to aesthetic flourishes, DRL’s commitment to bespoke solutions ensured the artwork could be experienced as intended - bold, immersive, and harmoniously integrated into the station’s architecture.

Setting the Standard in Architectural Craft

At Design Rationale, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored architectural metalwork and glazing solutions that meet the highest levels of performance and finish.

Our work at Farringdon Station - under the creative vision of Simon Periton and the technical leadership of Dean White - exemplifies our reputation for excellence in design delivery, combining artistic integrity with engineered perfection.

Farringdon Station today is more than a transport node. It is a landmark of cultural expression, collaborative design, and architectural craftsmanship. And for Design Rationale, it stands as a proud milestone in our ongoing journey to deliver spaces that speak through detail, durability, and design.