Framtidståget ready for departure
The design behind Framtidståget (Train of the Future) – from drawing board to premiere
Johan Larsvall, CEO at Idesign tells about the ideas behind the design of the new Arlanda Express.
1. Exterior
Arlanda Express is the fastest transportation option between Stockholm and Arlanda, which is reflected in the color and graphics of the train. The yellow color was combined with a shape that matches the play of lines in the front and gives a sensation of speed. The character of Arlanda Express is closely associated with its yellow color, which is strongly established. But to contribute to the sense of purity, simplicity, and timelessness, white was added as a dominant color.
The good environmental choice label informs travelers that they are traveling on an environmentally friendly option and has therefore been integrated in the paint and graphics on the door, like a seal. The logo is on the sides of the train.
All photos: Björn Fredriksson
In general, the exterior design is as clean and timeless as possible, to last over time yet radiate modernity and speed.
2. Partition walls
The end walls of the passenger cars are decorated with themes based on the Swedish provinces that inspire the desire to travel and welcome visitors from abroad to Stockholm. The photos were taken by professional photographers and follow the various themes of the train. The first train showcases Stockholm’s beautiful archipelago. Together the photo walls form what is probably the fastest photo gallery in the world.
3. Seats,
The expression “In the bubble” has been an important hallmark for the design of the chairs. We have endeavored to offer travelers a sphere of their own, while the encompassing design of the chairs enhances their sense of control and overview.
The seating comfort of the train chairs is based on knowledge and experience from Idesign’s previous collaboration with Kinnarps and development of work chairs. The compact design of the chair provides more legroom and luggage can be stored next to the passenger for better accessibility and oversight. Folding chairs by the entrance provides a flexible space for oversized luggage, baby carriages/prams, and the like. The chairs are upholstered in 100-percent wool, an environmentally friendly material that provides an elegant feeling of a suit. The subtly varied nuances of the upholstery liven up the car. The chair was developed specifically for this project.
Each chair has been tagged with a date on which major and minor historical events occurred. The dates are on our chairs because our history makes a difference for – and creates - our future.
4. Lounge
In the lounge section passengers can connect their laptops and sit high up on individual bar stools, separately or in informal groups.
5. Lighting
The lighting has played an important role for the total experience. Spot lighting creates a bit more drama and dynamic in the cars. A mix of light bulbs, new energy efficient LED technology instead of fluorescent bulbs and a special glass with an opal layer gives a soft, everyday light, just like the light at home.
Upon departure the dimmers turn the lights down toward the luggage racks and in the entries. Before the train stops the dimmers brighten the lights up again and the luggage rack is lit. The lighting, like the chair, was developed specifically for this project.
6. Total experience
The intention of the design has been to create an atmospheric interior that reflects Scandinavian design with new influences. Light surfaces, warm materials, and wood details can be found around the windows and along the luggage rack. The interior design conveys a sense of exclusiveness, timelessness, simplicity, and purity.
Other details (examples):
· Pulsating red heart when the restroom is occupied
· Foliage perforated in the ceiling of the entries
· Footrest doubles up as a heater guard
· Integrated information displays in glass walls
· Glass luggage racks for oversight
· Changing table integrated in sink counter
The idea behind Framtidståget (The Train of the Future)
Arlanda Express is celebrating its tenth anniversary. As part of the celebration, we presented "Framtidståget" – the "Train of the Future" project, in which Arlanda Express is investing SEK 100 million to refurbish all of our trains. The first train will be in operation next year and the first models have already been designed.
The vision for the project is to create a favorable experience in the public space through the use of interior and exterior color, design and function. Please try out our prototype passenger seat, which you can find in our waiting hall at Stockholm Central Station.
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Photo: Veronica Robin
Most important, however, is that the environment will be taken into account in every aspect of project. The Framtidståget project represents a fresh start, with the goal of providing our passengers with new experiences.
Pictures: Idesign