The Problem

Swiss train stations are designed for movement, but not for everyone. For wheelchair users, they often mean stress, delays, and dependence. Elevators are frequently hidden, broken, or crowded. Signs are placed too high or too far to be seen from a seated position. On trains, wheelchair compartments are often blocked by luggage or unaware passengers.

Although accessibility is required by law, over a third of Swiss stations are still not fully accessible. And when infrastructure fails, social behavior becomes the next barrier. Everyday actions like using the elevator instead of the stairs, can create obstacles for those who rely on it.

These situations are rarely intentional. They happen in fast-paced spaces built around able-bodied norms. But for those affected, the result is the same: lost time, frustration, and exclusion.

The Approach

This project explores small, low-cost improvements that help people move more considerately. Instead of enforcing rules, the aim is to make needs visible through better signage and subtle reminders.

Train stations are not just technical systems. They are shared environments where people with different needs move together. Simple, well-placed cues can prevent barriers and support fairer use of space.

What Was Done

To understand the challenges, the project combined:

• Observation of how travelers move, make decisions, find elevators, and respond to crowding
• Conversations with wheelchair users and SBB staff involved in navigation, signage, and assistance
• Diaries that captured real travel experiences through messages, photos, or notes

The findings showed that many obstacles weren’t caused by broken infrastructure, but by missing cues and social behavior. People often act without realizing the impact. This turned out to be one of the biggest challenges to accessibility.

The Solutions

Three simple ideas were developed:

• Elevator Signs at Eye Level
  Additional signs placed lower make elevators easier to spot for wheelchair users.
• Reminders at Elevator Doors
  Polite stickers ask people to consider others who may rely on the elevator more urgently.
• Clearer Train Markings
  Floor symbols and visual cues highlight which spaces are reserved, reducing misuse.

These ideas were tested with users and reviewed by SBB teams. Feedback confirmed they are understandable, cost-effective, and broadly helpful.

Impact

Together, these changes reduce search stress, improve clarity, and support more independent travel. They also give small prompts to help others act more thoughtfully in shared spaces.

The interventions are not standalone fixes. They are part of a bigger picture that includes emotional and practical needs from start to finish.

The Role of Design

Accessibility isn’t just about infrastructure. It’s also about awareness, visibility, and shared responsibility. Design can make invisible needs seen and help shape how we move together.