Universal Design: Design For All

Bybanen’s universal design guides the user to and from the tram. The design ensures that you are guided from the adjacent pavement and to a seat in the tram. At the end of the journey you leave the tram and intuitively discover where to continue from there.

All stops are perceived as identical. The repetition in structure as well as use of materials ensure predictability, which is of great importance to many of the tram’s users.

the platform

The platform defines the stop, providing a distinct frame. It is designed to ensure a well-organised flow of people, providing a waiting zone and a defined zone for getting on and off. The tactile guidelines on the ground indicate where on the orange information point you may buy tickets and where to enter the tram. The flooring is solid and durable, made of granite and is inspired by Bergen’s cobblestone streets. The flooring is constructed in a module system that integrates all the furniture and equipment at the stop, with the tactile guidelines appearing quite distinctly in a sharp minimalistic style, both blending in with the cityscape and giving Bybanen its own character.

waiting safely

The shelter is designed in an open and simple style to provide sufficient shelter from the elements for a few minutes’ waiting time. The shelter consists of three distinct elements:
• The orange information point is the central element at the stop.
• The back wall defines the waiting zone without blocking the outwards view.
• The roof stretches out across the platform and provides shelter from the rain.

Shelters, benches, waste bins, and railings constitute the furniture at the platform. All furniture is placed at the back of the platform to ensure an open space and easy flow of passengers getting on and off. Platform, shelter, and furniture are part of the same consistent module system.

the benches

The benches are designed from the overall principle that all elements should be part of a whole and not present a specific identity of their own. Consequently, the benches are made in a simple style that harmonises with the shelters. The seating is made of wood, which provides a comfortable and warm surface.

Colours and Elements

Bybanen has a set colour palette and material base consisting of glass, steel, granite, and wood. The recognisable orange colour is applied to attract people’s attention, while the other colours and materials are softened and toned down. The orange colour is not to be applied as a purely decorative element but serves as a signal for information. A dark grey colour on the vertical steel elements defines the platform zone, while a lighter grey colour is applied to surfaces along the line, aiming to attract a minimum of attention from the passengers.

Railing at the Platform

Bybanen has four types of railing installed: glass, picket, wire, and guide rails, to provide protection, open space, and security.

The glass railing provides protection against the traffic and shelter from the wind.

The picket railing is utilised in crossing areas to guide and secure the passenger traffic.

The handrail serves as a guide rail.

The open rail with wire and perforated poles are utilised to make every road user clearly visible to each other.

The real-time mast and the orange information point provide important information to the traveller. The real-time display shows the countdown to the next departure, delays, or operational problems. The display is placed on a separate mast outside the shelter to ensure it is clearly visible.

All passenger information is found on the orange information point. Here you will also find the ticket machine, a button for having the real-time information read out loud, and an emergency intercom.

The tactile guidelines provide information about the platform zone, the position of the vehicle doors, and where to buy your ticket.

Main photo: Francisco Munoz, Bergen kommune / Christine Hvidsten, Atle Kårstad
Illustrations: Arkitektgruppen Cubus