london tube

transport for london (tfl) has released a design manifesto for their tube called the london underground station design idiom. available to the public, the 225-page at-a-glance vision statement offers a glimpse into the future of the transport service.

designed by london-based [ studio egret west ] and described as a “revolutionary new design vision”, the idiom touches upon numerous aspects of design, including architecture, color palettes, lighting and materials.

david west from studio egret west, said: “we are delighted to be involved in the london underground station design idiom project at such a pivotal point in the network’s evolution and to receive recognition for it already.

“not since the days of frank pick has there been such an opportunity to holistically rethink the network’s design approach.”

tfl says its ultimate goal is to provide travelers with “welcoming, comfortable and straightforward journeys”, and has outlined nine key principles of design.

achieve balance across the network
look beyond the bostwick gate
consider wholeness
prioritise comfort for staff and customers
delight and surprise
use materials to create atmospheric spaces
create ambience with lighting
integrate products and services
prepare for the future

click on image to engage lightbox | 10 images courtesy of studio egret west

the london underground station design idiom has been shortlisted for the [ london design awards ] in the category of architecture – proposed. an exhibition of the idiom is on at the platform gallery behind southwark underground station. [ the london underground station design idiom ]