In light of the toll of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is expected to be present in some capacity until there is a vaccine, many architects and designers are working on projects with social distancing in mind—a great example here is PriestmanGoode who revisited its 2016 Island Bay train design and updated it to better suit the current climate.
The industrial design studio repurposes spaces that were originally designed for extra seating as bike storage. This move will enable for London commuters to "complete journeys between their home and workplace at either end on bike."
The update of the train design is following an announcement in the United Kingdom, which stated that "rail networks will be re-starting services [...] but will be reducing capacity on board down to as little as 10 percent."
Distance-Mindful Train Designs
PriestmanGoode Updates the Island Bay Train for Post-COVID Needs
Trend Themes
1. Social Distancing Design - PriestmanGoode's update to the Island Bay train design shows a trend in designing public spaces with social distancing measures in mind.
2. Multifunctional Spaces - The repurposing of extra seating as bike storage demonstrates a trend in creating versatile and adaptable spaces.
3. Active Commuting - The incorporation of bike storage in the train design reflects a trend towards promoting active and sustainable modes of transportation.
Industry Implications
1. Transportation - The train design update presents opportunities for innovation in the transportation industry, allowing for safer and more efficient commuting.
2. Architecture - The focus on social distancing design in public spaces opens up possibilities for architects to create innovative and adaptable designs.
3. Urban Planning - The incorporation of bike storage and active commuting highlights opportunities for disruptive innovation in urban planning, promoting sustainable and healthy cities.