Field – REVISITING ANOTHER NEW MAP 2019

Description

Kenneth Field reflects on revising his reimagined London Underground map after a rushed initial release for a conference. Early feedback—especially from Cameron Booth and colleagues—noted legibility problems, prompting a revised version. Changes include larger typography (smallest text increased by 3pt), differentiated label treatments for interchanges and National Rail connections (using size and colour rather than an extra symbol), and consistent terminus symbols. Linework was reorganized to create space for larger labels and reduce congested areas. The Elizabeth Line’s westward extension to Reading is shown boxed to acknowledge distance, Barbican/Farringdon/Elizabeth interchanges were clarified to match real operations, and South Tottenham was repositioned relative to Seven Sisters. Many outer stations and label placements were tweaked for better spacing and balance. Field retains the familiar London colours and typeface while evolving the map’s graphical language; he concludes version 2 is an improved map thanks to user critique and additional time.