Back in 1999, Railtrack commissioned UK-based design consultancy Lloyd Northover to create graphic badges that represent 14 major stations in the UK.
In the ‘National Rail Identity’ project, each circular badge had its own symbol that represent either the station architecture, the vicinity, or historical associations—for wandering wayfarers to more easily identify their location.
According to Creative Review, Lloyd Northover co-founder John Lloyd said that the symbols were to “enhance and communicate the distinct personality of each of the major stations”.
From Edinburgh Castle and Gatwick Airport, to Paddington Station and King’s Cross Station, check out the beautiful, condensed graphic symbols:
Edinburgh Waverley referencing Edinburgh Castle
Paddington Station
Euston Arch at London Euston
Gatwick Airport Station
Manchester Piccadilly Station (Victorian viaducts)
Glasglow Central Station, referencing Mackintosh
Charing Cross Station
King’s Cross Station
Victoria Station
Waterloo Station—Waterloo’s lion used to stand outside, before being moved to City Hall
Liverpook Street Station
Birmingham New Street Station
London Bridge Station
[via Creative Review and John David Lloyd]