Austin-Smith:Lord was one of six architectural practices invited to participate in a limited design competition for the new Stoke bus station. The new bus station is not only an opportunity to improve transport connections but will also play a vital role in the regeneration of the cultural and civic quarter of Hanley, establishing a link to an improved public realm and commercial district.

The design takes inspiration from the culture and heritage of the local pottery industry in the form of a sweeping shell-canopy that responds to the movements and flows of its context to provide an uplifting space as well as shelter for transport users. The architectural concept is based on large-span shell structures with a limited number of contact points on the ground.