Altro and Neomind have secured two awards at the 2026 MUSE Design Awards for their joint ‘Universal Bus’ concept.
The global annual event showcases and awards outstanding design work in various categories.
The collaboration between the transport flooring specialist and customer experience design agency received a Gold award in the Transportation — Rapid Bus category and a Silver award in the Transportation — Mass Transit Systems category. The awards follow a win at the London Design Forum last year.
The concept, which debuted at Altro’s Transport Design Forum in 2025, was recognised for its approach to accessibility, which focuses not only on physical and mobility requirements but also on sensory and cognitive challenges faced by passengers with hidden disabilities, including neurodivergent and neurodegenerative conditions. Such topics have been a recent focus at Altro’s Forum.
The project sets out a design framework aimed at creating a more predictable and less stressful onboard environment, using elements such as calming material palettes, clearer spatial layouts and flexible seating arrangements.
“Winning in two distinct transportation categories is a powerful validation of our belief that inclusive design in public spaces is essential,” comments Chris Edwards-Thorne, Marketing Manager for Altro Global Transport. “By combining Altro’s material expertise with Neomind’s experience-led design approach, we’ve been able to turn inclusive design theory into practical, real-world solutions that serve the entire community.”
Adds Kasia Foljanty, Director of Customer Experience at Neomind: “Inclusive design isn’t a single feature but a system. We looked at moments where travellers feel uncertainty or stress and used those as opportunities for improvement. Our goal was to empower people to travel confidently and independently, and these awards confirm that the industry is ready for this shift.”
