Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
A selection of Gerd Arntz's ISOTYPEs, 1928-1965.
The geographically inaccurate map
Most people are familiar with the iconic London Underground map, designed by Eng-
lish engineer Henry C. Beck (1902-1974) in 1933. This map was a major innovation
of its time, because it does not take the form of a traditional, geographically correct,
map. It presents a diagrammatic representation of the Underground in which accurate
distances and realism are dispensed with (there is no need for such information when
one is underground) in favour of clarity and usability. The result is a clear map drawn
on a grid of horizontals, verticals and 45-degree diagonals, with bright colour-coding
to identify the different lines. The central section of the map is enlarged in proportion
to the rest as it contains several complicated interchanges and more stations. Beck
was a draughtsman who had worked on electrical circuits: the combination of circuit
diagram and map was his idea. London Underground's publicity department was ini-
tially sceptical about Beck's design, but it printed a trial run and asked the public for
feedback. The new map was found to be easy to read and functional, so it was im-
plemented throughout the Underground system. It is now a design standard and has
inspired subway and railway maps across the world.
