Transilien SNCF calls on 5 design studios to rethink pieces from the “Petit Gris” and is auctioning 90 original pieces from this iconic train of the Ile-de-France landscape, as well as 35 pieces redesigned by 5 French design studios: Formel, Studio BrichetZigler, Désormaux & Carette, Studio Monsieur and Rémi Perret, as part of the exhibition “New Destination – Les Petits Gris are reinvented”.
The hundred or so pieces taken from these stainless steel cases which have crisscrossed the Ile-de-France for 50 years are gathered at Ground Control (75012) until December 1st. The next day, it will be auctioned for the benefit of the Restos du cœur association. Like Airbus last April, Transilien SNCF is banking on upcycling to give a second life to these parts of the iconic train with orange leatherette seats.
Link vintage and design
Transilien SNCF and the partner studios have a common desire to transform certain pieces of the “Petits Gris” into everyday objects. While some have focused on iconic pieces, such as Rémi Perret who is rethinking the use of benches, others, like Studio BrichetZiegler, wished to reveal invisible pieces such as the headlights of the panel train.
The Formel duo carries out historical work around these pieces and dissects the hinges of the “Petits Gris” folding seats. The two designers Timothée Concaret and Nicolas Mérigout adopt a rational approach to the creation of their object and thus offer folding wall shelves that use these still functional hinges.
A 2nd sale for the benefit of Restos du Cœur
After 2012, Transilien SNCF is organizing its second solidarity auction, all of the profits from which will be donated to the Restos du Cœur. An approach that resonates with the 5 partner studios since they present objects that are not only aesthetic, but also usable.
The 125 pieces of the “Petits Gris” are on display until December 1, 2019. The auction will be held on December 2 at 6.30 p.m. and simultaneously at Ground Control (75012).
