Harrison – AN AESTHETIC ALTERNATIVE TO EMRS NETWORK MAP 2021

Description

Architect and mapmaker Jug Cerovic has produced a striking redesign of East Midlands Railway’s (EMR) network map that prioritizes legibility and aesthetic clarity over geographic accuracy. EMR, which adopted a new aubergine-based brand after taking over the franchise in 2019 and now operates three sub-brands (Intercity, Regional and Electrics), originally used a minimalist map that attempted to place services in geographic context. Cerovic’s version centers on Nottingham, uses uniform angles and a limited aubergine/white palette to highlight EMR routes, and largely omits non-EMR stations and distracting white space, while still showing other operators’ lines in a subdued way. The redesign has been praised for better layout and focus on connections, but critics warn the color choices could reduce accessibility for visually impaired users and argue traditional maps on white backgrounds may remain clearer. The piece invites readers to weigh legibility, aesthetics and accessibility when comparing cartographic approaches.