Form, Function, & Emotion.
Far from a dystopian future where dark colors, stark lighting, and screens abound, Virgin Hyperloop’s counter-narrative is a more optimistic view of the future: a greener, smoother, safer, and more pleasant mass transit experience.
With this in mind, our goal for the interior design was to create a more human-centric environment centered on passenger well-being that emphasized brand quality and balanced the dichotomy between personal and communal space. A neutral palette of warm grays highlighting Virgin Hyperloop's brand identity paired with textures and a curated grouping of materials build a sense of depth and interest while allowing the interior's overall tone to provide a soothing backdrop for travel.
Our design centers on instilling trust and confidence to reassure and affirm passengers throughout their journey.
Beyond clearly marking emergency exits, which differ from boarding entryways, prominent placement of the intercom, flashlight, and fire extinguisher comfort passengers through whatever "what if" scenarios they might imagine. These comfort cues are complemented by interior finishes that are clean, warm, and supple with accents of wood, embroidery, and organic touches.
Hidden technology reveals itself only when needed to enhance the sense of discovery and delight. Metallics are treated as jewels, and known materials are used in unexpected ways, all with touches of brand expression. While purposefully subtle, the design details provide a calming aesthetic that complements the entire passenger experience.
In our design we wanted to establish a baseline for Hyperloop to be inclusive and avoid pitfalls other transportation types still struggle with. For example, our design makes it possible for passengers in wheelchairs to board and exit independently and have the same amenities as other passengers.
