Interior design for the new trains of Appenzeller Railways: Bringing tradition and modernity onto the rails
With the introduction of new train fleets and the opening of the Trogen–St. Gallen–Appenzell cross-city line, Appenzeller Bahnen ushered in a new era of public transportation in Eastern Switzerland. In collaboration with Stadler Rail, Milani developed the interior design for the new “Tango” and “Walzer” trains, creating a travel experience that combines regional identity, passenger comfort, and modern mobility.
Challenge: Designing a new generation of trains
Appenzeller Bahnen was undertaking one of the most significant modernization programs in its history. As part of a comprehensive fleet renewal initiative, more than half of the rolling stock was to be replaced. At the same time, the new Trogen–St. Gallen–Appenzell cross-city line was being developed as a strategic transportation link that would fundamentally transform mobility throughout the region.
The challenge for Milani and Stadler Rail was to replace an existing tram concept with modern trains offering higher standards of comfort, accessibility, and capacity, without compromising the familiar travel experience passengers had come to value. The goal was to create a design that preserves the character of the region while making the future of mobility visible.
Approach: Making regional identity part of the travel experience
Milani developed an interior design concept that reinterprets the cultural identity of the Appenzell region in a contemporary way. Colors, materials, and design elements draw inspiration from traditional Appenzell costumes and cowbells, translating these cultural references into a modern design language.
Special attention was given to the seating. The seats feature typical Appenzell dialect expressions collected from local residents through the public competition “Wa chonnt der in Sinn?” (“What comes to mind?”). The result is an interior design that actively involves the local community and transforms every journey into a small voyage of discovery.
“Tango” between Trogen, St. Gallen, and Appenzell
For the new cross-city line, Milani designed a light-filled interior featuring expansive panoramic windows that make the region’s spectacular landscape an integral part of the travel experience. Bright materials and an open spatial concept create a modern and welcoming atmosphere. Level boarding and low-floor access provide convenient entry and enhance travel comfort for passengers with limited mobility, families with strollers, and travelers carrying luggage.
“Walzer” for the Gossau–Appenzell–Wasserauen line
The “Walzer” character trains bring the cultural diversity of the Appenzell region to life. Each train is dedicated to a traditional Appenzell custom. Upon boarding, passengers are greeted by large-format photographs on the driver's cab doors depicting traditions such as the Silvesterchlausen, Bloch procession, Alpine cattle drive, Betruf, and Alpstobete. The seating continues this celebration of regional identity through the use of local dialect expressions. Colors, materials, and patterns are inspired by traditional costumes and cowbells, turning every journey into an exploration of the culture and history of Appenzell.
Result: A new face for Eastern Switzerland
With the “Tango” and “Walzer” trains, Appenzeller Bahnen gained more than modern vehicles—they gained a distinctive design identity that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. The new trains offer a comfortable and accessible travel experience while making the region’s cultural heritage visible throughout the passenger journey. Through the thoughtful integration of regional elements, Milani created a design that authentically reflects the identity of the Appenzell region and strengthens the connection between local residents and their railway. The new trains have become ambassadors of the region and continue to shape the visual identity of Appenzeller Bahnen and Eastern Switzerland as a whole.
Milani Services
- Transportation Design
- Product Design and Industrial Design
- Train Interior Design
- Train Exterior Design
- Train Interior Materials
- Standards & Specifications
- Storytelling
