Born on a Train

As Canada’s plans for a high-speed Ontario–Quebec rail line gain momentum, the country might do well to look abroad for style ideas.

The true star of France’s new TGV INOUI trains (designed by Nendo alongside the engineering consultancy AREP, and debuting in 2026) is the chic moutarde-hued table lamp installed in each row. By taking inspiration from horizon lines and river stones, the playful seating companion reflects the rural scenery rolling by. As it turns out, the French have a history of great transit lighting: Ionna Vautrin’s equally charming design for the SNCF’s current generation of railcar lamps became such a hit that a commercial version was eventually put into production. Here’s hoping...