NS Platform Bench
a comfortable train platform bench, providing its users with a safe, protected and relaxing feeling while waiting for the train.
year: 2019
client: Frankenhuis B.V.
Status: Concept
Rendering of the platform bench
A waiting-area concept to complement the platform bench
Spacer Fabric cushioning, made from chemically recycled PET
A little glimpse into the designing process, showing different designs and configurations for the armrests
About the NS platform bench
The results of the design assignment are a detailed design for a comfortable NS train platform bench and a global concept for a relaxing waiting area. Both of these designs work together to create the intended user experience: a safe, protected and relaxing feeling while waiting for the train to arrive.
A prominent feature of the bench is its U-shape. This gives the bench the same extruded design style as the ProRail platform benches already present on most Dutch train platforms. But more importantly, by covering the users body with the sides of the bench, a more protected an private experience is created.
The bench is constructed using FSC certified tropical hardwood, Spacer Fabrics from recycled PET and a woven pile fabric. At the end of its lifespan, most the parts of the bench can be recycled. All these factors help to keep the environmental impact of the bench low.
Apart from using greenery and a house-like shape, the main feature of the waiting-area concept is the division between a silent and a general area. In this way, the waiting area can give the right user experience to various travelers with different needs and wishes.
The Assignment
I designed this NS platform bench and the waiting area during my minor Product Experience at Windesheim. This minor focuses on the experiential psychology of consumers. The design assignment within this minor is very free. I chose to design a platform bench, because up to that point I didn't have a lot of experience with the field of furniture-design.
the designproces, details and more
Design Report