Field – MIND THE MAP 2023

Description

Kenneth Field critiques the contemporary London Underground map as cluttered and inconsistent, arguing Beck’s 1930s schematic—though iconic—no longer serves a far larger, multimodal network. He describes an iterative redesign process producing five alternative maps that aim to honor Beck’s legacy while improving legibility and functionality. Early experiments used hexagonal and square grids; a physical pegboard with coloured thread produced Design 2, which digitized the layout, retained the Thames for geographic context, simplified symbology, and deliberately omitted clutter (accessibility icons, fare zones, intermittent services). A 3D isometric experiment was rejected by reviewers. Field’s review of TfL’s 2022 Tube Map finds poor consistency, excessive connectors, and overloaded information. Later designs adopt a stations-first approach, hierarchical typography, reduced curves and interchange symbols, reclassify lines by mode with an accessible new colour scheme, add route numbering and segment-level route labels, and (Design 5) vary line widths to reflect service frequency. Field calls for fresh debate and a new map better suited to modern travel needs.