Milan 2013: Dutch design studio Tjep. will launch a dining booth inspired by old train compartments at Ventura Lambrate in Milan next week.

Il Treno by Tjep. is a standalone dining booth inspired by the secluded compartments found on luxurious old trains like the Orient Express.

A table hangs down from the overhead rack and small metal steps on the side of the booth help diners into their seats.

The unit is made from ash or oak and comes in two versions, one with cupboards behind the seats and one without. It's available through the studio's website and will be presented at Ventura Lambrate in Milan from 9 to 14 April – see more news and products from Milan 2013.

The booths are based on a previous design by Tjep. for the interior of a Dutch pizzeria, while the studio's other work includes a departure lounge with a slide in Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport and a chair with one side hacked down to a skeletal form – see all design by Tjep.

Here's some more information from the designers:

Amsterdam-based Tjep. seek to infuse Milan with some of their ‘tjepology’ in an exhibition at the Ventura Lambrate area of Salone Internazionale del Mobile. Founded in 2001 by prominent Dutch designer Frank Tjepkema, the studio has garnered a reputation for iconoclastic work across a broad field of expertise that includes award-winning interior, architectural, product, furniture, and jewellery design. Countering globalised uniformity, Tjep. design for those who seek to rediscover individualism.

Il Treno

A standalone piece, this daring item creates an intimate dining experience reminiscent of the old secluded train compartments on the Orient Express. Il Treno is about intimacy and romanticism: for there is nothing better than enjoying fine cuisine while being transported to new landscapes. This modular unit is handcrafted in Ash or Oak wood and comes in two versions, one with storage for your fine china and one without.

Location: Plusdesign gallery, Via Ventura 6, 20134 Milan
Opening times:
Tue–Sat 10:00–20:00
Sun 10:00–18:00