SDM
Context & Goals
In MBD Design in Paris, I was responsible, together with other 3 colleagues, for developing the creative research for the design of new handrails and platform shelters for train stations.
Below I will present to you my collaboration.
The handrail project was centred around the development of new handrails in new and existing metro and train stations staircases both outdoor and underground.
For the platform shelter, we created a new range of exterior waiting cells on the platforms of the train station. As a modular device for sheltering travellers, protecting them from unpleasant weather conditions, the shelter should be adaptable to the architectural configuration of the railway stations.
Handrail
The design concept where developed underlining tacking into account the following aspects:
- 1. Sensory experience: the feeling of first contact, Induced feeling of security, usability visual cues, measures to ease and secure the use for any person with a permanent disability;
- 2. Functionality: safety in each stage of usage;
- 3. Dramatization: Aesthetically pleasing with tactile sensations.
- Goals - Aesthetics: Connection between design, historical and traditional elements of the city; Security: Equipment should allow to visually guide and anticipate the path; Consistency: With the different types of spaces (new and existing); Functionality and Modularity.
Platform shelter
The design concept where developed underlining tacking into account the following aspects:
- 1. Object expression: Censorial experience both visual and tactile.
- 2. Magnify experience: Make use of the shelter for more than just a temporary protection by creating a pleasant, joyful and creative design;
- 3. Climate adaptability: Shelter that adapts to different climate changes (seasonal).
- Goals - Integration: A good integration on the existing train station (aesthetics); Modularity; Easy to use and understand; Flow management: Respect to movement flow on the platform
Concept & Process
Before developing any concept I did a research online: I created a benchmark, to see what already exists aesthetically, functionally and regarding safety; I made a mood board with the concepts I found interesting to serve as inspiration; Finally, I developed sketches of ideas where I selected 2 concepts for the platform shelters and 1 for the staircase. I decided to create a design that is organic and that the user can interact with.
I had few times to develop this project so every step was simplified and done as fast as possible.
Concept Sketches - handrail
Study of single and double handrail with incorporated LEDs. Study of different tactile experiences with the use of different shapes and materials.
Concept Sketches - Platform Shelter
Concept 1 - Wavy
The design lines are a contrast between straight and curved lines, it is inspired in censorial expressions both tactile and visual, in simplified gentle organic lines. This design it is discrete, simple and clean, it is inviting and comfortable. The roof is slightly inclined so that the rain and snow fall backwards.
Concept 1 - Oval
Final Result
Staircase
Double handrail with LEDs incorporated. The handrail gives both warm and cold tactile and visual experiences
The design is a mix between modern and classic: the wooden handrails add a traditional element and can also be strikingly modern, especially when combined with materials such as metal, glass or LED lights. The metal horizontal bars evoke the clean lines and curves of Art Deco style. Clean and neutral colors and materials allow the design to shine and at the same time to well integrate in most of backgrounds.
Platform Shelter
Concept 1 - Wavy