The London Underground logo is one of the most iconic symbols in the world. It represents not just a transportation system but also a cultural and historical landmark.
Have you ever wondered what the London Underground logo is called? In this article, we will explore the fascinating story behind this famous symbol and its name.
The Roundel: A Timeless Symbol
The London Underground logo, also known as the roundel, is a simple yet powerful design that has stood the test of time. It consists of a red circle with a blue bar running across it horizontally. Inside the red circle, there is a bold blue bar with the word ‘UNDERGROUND’ written in white uppercase letters.
A Symbol of Identity
The roundel was first introduced in 1908 and has since become synonymous with London’s underground network. It is not only used on station signage but also on maps, tickets, and other official documents. The roundel’s ubiquity has made it an integral part of London’s identity and culture.
The Origins of the Roundel
The roundel was designed by Edward Johnston, a renowned calligrapher, and typographer. He was commissioned by Frank Pick, who was then managing director of the Underground Electric Railways Company of London (UERL). Pick wanted to create a distinct symbol that would be instantly recognizable as belonging to the London Underground.
An Evolutionary Design Process
Johnston drew inspiration from various sources when designing the roundel. He incorporated elements from other well-known symbols such as the wheel-like shape from London General Omnibus Company’s logo and colors inspired by signal flags used in naval communications.
A Change in Colors
Originally, the bar inside the red circle was blue to represent all lines within the underground network. However, during World War II, it was changed to red for safety reasons as blue could be easily mistaken for the Royal Air Force roundel. This change remained even after the war ended, and the red bar has become a defining characteristic of the London Underground logo.
The Name: Roundel
The London Underground logo’s official name is the roundel. The term “roundel” refers to a circular shape used as a symbol or decoration. It is derived from the French word “rondelle,” meaning small round object or disk.
A Versatile Design
The roundel’s simplicity and versatility have allowed it to be easily adapted for different purposes. Over the years, variations of the roundel have been created to represent specific lines or stations within the underground network. These variations retain the core elements of the roundel while incorporating additional colors or symbols unique to each line or station.
- The Circle Line’s roundel features a solid yellow bar instead of blue.
- The Victoria Line’s roundel has a light blue bar and a white border.
- Some stations have their own unique logos that incorporate elements from the roundel, such as Tottenham Court Road’s distinctive red and blue triangle.
An Enduring Legacy
The London Underground logo, known as the roundel, remains an enduring symbol of London and its transportation system. Its timeless design and widespread recognition make it not just an iconic logo but also an integral part of London’s visual identity.
In conclusion, we now know that the London Underground logo is officially called the roundel. This simple yet powerful design created by Edward Johnston has become synonymous with London’s underground network and represents much more than just a transportation system.
Its evolution over time and versatile adaptations highlight its significance in both design and cultural contexts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to London, spotting this iconic logo will surely evoke a sense of familiarity, history, and pride in this remarkable city.