Thomas Wood – Off the map
Off The Map is a new project by graphic designer Thomas Wood, which allows people to discover the stories behind London Underground’s disused stations. Ten original designs bring to life the history and secrets of forgotten stations including Aldwych, British Museum and Down Street. 2013 marks 150 years of London Underground – the world’s oldest and longest serving underground transport system. The Tube has seen some of the biggest changes in society during its service. Ever-evolving demands have required a range of alternations, resulting in a wide range of disused stations across the network. Thomas Wood comments, “At 18, I was looking out of the window on the Central Line and saw what looked like white tiles in the middle of the tunnel. I was fascinated to later discover this was the remnants of one of the many now disused stations, each with their own unique history.” “I wanted to create a brand and designs that would depict the mystery and intrigue that lies behind these lost underground worlds. For example, the design for British Museum Station illustrates the glimpses of the famous classic platform tiling that can still be seen from passing Central Line trains. For Down Street, the design depicts its demise as a result of low passenger traffic due to more popular neighbouring stations.” “The Underground is a lifeline for Londoners and visitors to the city. Its design is one of the most recognisable in the world but in its 150th year – when we will celebrate the successes of the Underground – these unique new designs commemorate what’s been ‘lost’, and for many what they never knew existed.”
