The latest models of Brussels' trams and metros were recognised for their unique look during the 'Oscars of Design' on Monday night.
Brussels public transport operator STIB won two prizes for its Tram New Generation (TNG), which took to the tracks this April, and the M7 metro. They each received the prize in the 'product design' category for their Art Nouveau-inspired curves during the international Red Dot Awards, an international award for product design, communication and concepts.
"Art Nouveau architecture contributes to making Brussels a beautiful and pleasant city to live in. The design of our vehicles perfectly matches the aesthetics of this art movement, which gives Brussels all its charm," said STIB CEO Brieuc de Meeûs.
He added that these awards are a recognition of the importance that STIB attaches to the design of its vehicles.
"The interior and exterior appearance is an essential element to ensure that passengers are comfortable on board and feel connected to the buses, trams and metros they see every day."
Aesthetic integration
The designs of the latest TNG tram, praised for its wide doors and low floors, and the M7 metro, combining comfort and aesthetic, were created by Antwerp-based design agency Yellow Window Design, which drew its inspiration for the interiors and exteriors from the curves characteristic of the art movement.
The company has paid particular attention to the aesthetic integration of its vehicles into the Brussels environment since the introduction of the Tram 3000 in 2005, which was designed by the same agency.
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This is not the first time Brussels' trams have been internationally rewarded for their design: in 2007, the Art Nouveau appearance of the T3000/T4000 trams (the predecessors of TNG) received the prestigious Henry Van de Velde label and the Design At Work Award.
