Deutsche Bahn

Spatial Orientation System

Deutsche Bahn hosts more than 5,400 train stations across Germany. With the steady increase in passenger traffic and a growing demand for modern, comfortable mobility services, optimizing spatial orientation is essential. Moniteurs was commissioned by DB InfraGo to develop a concept for reception buildings. DB InfraGo, a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn, is tasked with setting new standards for the efficient and environmentally friendly design of Germany’s rail infrastructure.

DB Reception Building Orientation System

2024

Client

DB InfraGO AG

Cover Image

Deutsche Bahn AG
The frequency at train stations is continuously increasing. Clear spatial orientation enhances the travel experience for passengers.

The new spatial orientation system strategically places various elements—such as information systems, furniture, and travel service facilities—within the space to ensure visitors enjoy an intuitive and stress-free journey while having a pleasant stay. Commercial and dining options also play a key role in the station experience. These areas should be clearly organized without interfering with the primary purpose of travel. Ideally, this creates unique and inspiring travel experiences that can be individually tailored to each visitor.

The time spent at the train station goes beyond the act of traveling itself, encompassing a comfortable stay and enjoyable opportunities for consumption.
The needs of individuals for safety, autonomy, and comfort were central to the development of the orientation system. The positioning and clustering of individual elements have a significant impact on the well-being of guests.

In close collaboration with the InfraGo team, international best practices were reviewed, potential areas of action for DB train stations were discussed, and a future strategy was developed. This strategy is heavily focused on the needs of the visitors. Dr. Nicola Moczek from PSY:PLAN, Institute for Architecture and Environmental Psychology, contributed architectural-psychological expertise as part of the team. Scientific input on orientation strategies in complex buildings was thus integrated into the new orientation system. As a result, the needs of travelers and consumers are at the core of the new system.

Analysis of train stations using movement flows for arriving and departing passengers to optimally position individual objects and service offerings.

To develop principles that practically assist station management in optimally equipping the respective station foyers, five stations of varying sizes were analyzed and parts of the new concept were tested for applicability.
The resulting concept is now being implemented within the company, allowing for feedback from real-world use to be incorporated.

Different “events” form distinct travel chains, which were analyzed as part of the concept development.