The London Underground is one of the most iconic public transportation systems in the world. Its design and branding have become synonymous with the city itself, and one of the most recognizable elements of that design is its typography. The font used on the London Underground has a rich history and has become an integral part of the city’s identity.
The History of the Font
The font used on the London Underground is known as Johnston, named after its creator, Edward Johnston. Johnston was a calligrapher who was commissioned in 1913 to create a new typeface for use on all London Underground signage. The goal was to create a font that was easy to read and distinct from other typefaces in use at the time.
Johnston’s design was inspired by classical Roman lettering, with simple, clean lines and minimal flourishes. The letters were designed to be easily legible from a distance, which was important for commuters rushing through busy stations.
The Evolution of the Font
Over time, Johnston’s original design has been modified and adapted to fit changing technology and design trends. In 1979, a new version of the font called New Johnston was introduced, which made adjustments to improve legibility on modern signage.
In recent years, Transport for London (TfL), which oversees the London Underground system, commissioned a new typeface called Johnston100. This updated version of Johnston was designed specifically for digital screens and includes new weights and styles that make it easier to read on mobile devices.
The Legacy of the Font
Despite these updates over time, Johnston remains an iconic part of London’s visual identity. The font has been used on all London Underground signage since its inception over 100 years ago, making it one of the longest-running design elements in any public transportation system.
In addition to its use on signage, Johnston has also been incorporated into other aspects of London’s design culture. The font has been used in advertising campaigns, on clothing and merchandise, and even as the inspiration for new typefaces created by other designers.
Conclusion
The font used on the London Underground is an important part of the city’s visual identity. Its clean lines and easy-to-read design have helped commuters navigate the city’s busy transportation system for over 100 years. While the font has evolved over time to fit changing technology and design trends, it remains an iconic part of London’s history and culture.