THE designer of tennis star Andy Murray's hotel bar and restaurant is to create the look of the decor on a new cross-border night train.

THE designer of tennis star Andy Murray's hotel bar and restaurant is to create the look of the decor on a new cross-border night train.

Ian Smith Design, the Edinburgh based firm that has managed a number of major projects in the hospitality sector including the New Brasserie, Cameron House, Cook School and Edinburgh restaurant for Martin Wishart and Murray's Cromlix House Hotel in Perthshire, has been appointed to steer the remit for the new Caledonian Sleeper trains due in service from 2018.

The firm was appointed by Serco, the multinational company that will operate the new franchise from April on a 15-year contract that will see the night train run separately from the main ScotRail franchise for the first time since privatisation.

On-board enhancements will include en-suite toilet and shower facilities in business class berths, a brasserie-style club car and "pod seats" in standard class which can fold down into flat-beds.

Passengers will also be offered a broader range of fares, earlier boarding of trains and the ability to manage their journey virtually.

Over £100m will be invested in the new fleet which is part funded by a £60m capital grant from the Scottish Government and will be built by Spanish maker CAF, which also built the Edinburgh trams.

Mr Smith said his team was thrilled to take on this project and also kitting out a passenger centre in Inverness.

He said: "As a local design company, it is a real privilege to be involved with a much loved local project which runs through the heart of Scotland."

Peter Strachan, managing director for the new Caledonian Sleeper, said: "We are delighted to be working with Ian and his team on the interior design of our new trains as well as our new flagship Guest Service Centre in Inverness.

"We have admired Ian's work for some time and are excited about the contemporary Scottish theme which our guests will enjoy."

Transport Minister Derek Mackay said: "The announcement that Scottish designer Ian Smith will create the new look for the interiors of the new Caledonian Sleeper fleet is exciting news for the service and for everyone who will use it."