8 February 2023
On Wednesday evening, 27 of the hundreds of entries received awards in 9 different categories.
According to the jury, this renovation created a pleasant environment, offering a great sense of comfort. A warm cocoon that focuses on the traveller experience.
‘We are extremely proud to receive the Henry van de Velde 2023 award for our refurbished trains. These trains prove Thalys' determination to continually evolve to meet the needs of its passengers. The fact that we have been recognised by a jury of professionals is a real honour. This prize is a wonderful reward for the teams who helped to bring this project to fruition. I would like to congratulate them and sincerely thank them for the many hours of work they have put into it,’ said Gwendoline Cazenave, Eurostar Group CEO.
Strong points of the new design
The main purpose behind the renovation of the Thalys trains was to continue to provide optimum comfort, while increasing capacity. The seat design was of vital importance in this renovation project. Seats are the most emblematic element of Thalys trains.
In order to improve comfort and enhance passengers' sense of well-being, they have been redesigned and optimised in every area of the train. This has been achieved thanks to specific ergonomics, the addition of functions on the trays and the use of high-quality, durable materials.
In addition to the seats, other elements have been improved and new functions introduced. To meet passenger needs, the new Thalys trains have extra luggage space, USB ports and information screens. The bar area has also been redesigned and transformed into an inviting space equipped with drink and snack dispensers for greater autonomy. Unused space on the train was redesigned to offer more luggage space (+15%) and create 28 additional seats (+7.5%).
A new, modern and sophisticated LED lighting system has also been added to give a greater feeling of space. Thanks to these improvements, the train is significantly and further reducing eqCO2 emissions per passenger and per kilometre.
‘Our goal was to create a comfortable design, of timeless beauty and elegance, which will still be modern ten years from now.
A design that fully takes into account the needs of Thalys passengers. We have focused on high-quality materials, ergonomic seats, new colour variations and softer lighting. I think we have met the challenge of designing a modern interior while staying true to the Thalys identity,’ designer Axel Enthoven explains.
A train that has been in circulation since October 2021
The newly designed train entered service in October 2021, on the Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam line. In summer 2022, the renovated trains began their first journeys to Germany. The train's design can also be admired until 2 April at Bozar in Brussels, as part of a free exhibition featuring all the winners of the Henry van de Velde awards. The design can also be viewed in 3D on newthalys.com.
Key figures concerning the renovation
● 28 additional seats in the new trains, +7.5%.
● 50 cm of legroom between two opposite seats
● 22 screens providing real-time passenger information on board
● +15% storage room for luggage (the equivalent of roughly 425 large suitcases)
● 8462 hours of brainstorming
● Savings of up to 10% eqCO2 per passenger
About the Henry van de Velde Awards
The Henry van de Velde Awards showcase and celebrate Flemish designers, companies, products, projects, services, and systems that, through the smart use of design, have a positive impact on society, the environment, and the economy. The Henry van de Velde Awards are widely supported thanks to the shared vision of a professional and independent jury with significant expertise in the sector. With a website, the official award ceremony, an exhibition and a publication, the Henry van de Velde Awards are a true platform for Flemish design. The Henry van de Velde Awards are presented by Flanders DC and are the most prestigious design awards in Belgium. More information on www.henryvandevelde.be
About Yellow Window
Yellow Window is a multidisciplinary design studio (previously known as Enthoven Associates Design Consultants). The company has several studios located in Antwerp, Paris and Lyon.
Yellow Window specialises in mobility and the studio has completed more than 100 rail projects.
Yellow Window was part of the first Thalys renovation from 2005 to 2006.
For further information: https://www.yellowwindow.com/