My Daily Dose of Architecture: Ferrari Designer Unveils Futuristic Cruise Train

As a student, the usage of public transport has become a daily routine. Both to University and work, during my current internship year. I am always fascinated when art and design meets methods of transport and the limitations that are reached - be it trains, super cars, yachts and airplanes. Which is why this luxurious super train designed by Ferrari designer, Ken Okuyama and commissioned by JR East, not only fascinated me but made me realize that architecture is not something that stands still from the ground, but can be a moving body - and this 'boutique hotel on rails' definitely proves that.

I have to give Okuyama his due, but I never thought that public transport could look so good. Combining both futuristic and retro looks, the luxury sleeper train will feature Standard Suites with sofa chairs that fold into beds and split-level Deluxe Suites with a living area on top, a sleeping area below, and a private bathroom on the entry level in-between. The observation deck is a focal area, proving to be extremely futuristic with the views that it provides together with the interior designs, by the look of the renders below.

Internal views of a deluxe suite, complete with a separate sitting room and bathroom.

East Japan Railway Company cc.

The designer, Ken Okuyama, is well known for Ferrari designs, as well as having experience in designing eyewear, furniture and has previously worked with the Japanese rail company, JR East's recently launched E6 and E7 bullet trains.

The turning point is the numbers of course. The Cruise Train, taking in consideration being designed by a Ferrari car designer, is expected to cost 5 Billion Yen (approximately R519 million ZAR / US $49.3 million). JR East would definitely have to attach a high price range for such a luxurious 'train journey' in order to make their money back, seeing that the ten-car train would only be able to house 34 passengers. On the bright side of things, JR East is scheduled to commence operations in 2016, leading to the launch of the Cruise Train, which should happen around 2017.

Below are a few visual renders which were released, of the proposed Cruise Train.