EMR Station Facility Design Guidelines

YMD Boon were appointed to develop comprehensive design specifications for East Midlands Railway, supporting the consistent rollout of station facilities across their network. This included waiting rooms, toilet areas, waiting shelters, cycle parking and inclusivity lounges. The guidelines combine visual proposals with detailed specifications for finishes, fittings and furniture to ensure a cohesive and recognisable aesthetic.

The documentation also incorporated key legislative and best-practice guidance, including standards from the Rail Safety and Standards Board and principles from Secured by Design, alongside guidance on sustainability, accessibility and signage. This work aligns with significant ongoing investment in rolling stock, station upgrades and a refreshed brand identity.

Operated by Abellio, East Midlands Railway is undertaking a major programme of improvements. YMD Boon collaborated with a wide range of stakeholders, including branding, project management, quality and security teams, to ensure spaces are comfortable, contemporary, easy to maintain, and support safety and privacy.

A series of flexible design options were developed to suit varying budgets and spatial constraints, including high, medium and low specification models, and small, medium and large layouts. The proposals also explored biophilic design approaches, incorporating features such as green walls and living elements to enhance user experience.

Throughout, the designs carefully integrated East Midlands Railway’s distinctive purple and white brand identity, ensuring consistency across the network while responding to functional and operational requirements.