Automated Light-Rail System Designs

The Quebec-based company Céragrès, a specialist in architectural finishing materials, served as a key technical and design consultant for the Réseau express métropolitain — also known as REM, a major new automated light-rail system in Montreal.

The company was engaged during the project's initial design phase to select and develop the surfacing materials for the network's 26 stations. The task required aligning distinct color-coded visual identities for each line with stringent performance and safety requirements. Céragrès' involvement translated to custom terrazzo-effect porcelain tiles and wall finishes in specific sizes and colors to ensure network legibility. Beyond aesthetics, a primary technical challenge for the development of the automated light-rail system was sourcing and developing materials capable of withstanding extreme environmental stress, including freeze-thaw cycles and heavy pedestrian traffic, as well as meeting universal accessibility standards. This led to the innovation of non-slip flooring and textured tiles to aid the visually impaired. For the underground stations, Céragrès adapted an exterior mechanical anchoring system for large-format ceramic panels to address structural and maintenance challenges.