MAP & SIGNAGE DESIGN
Redesigning Singapore's Railway Map & Signage
On days where I'm allowed to, I would explore parts of Singapore I've never stepped foot on, to play tourist in my own country — much thanks to the pandemic. The train has since been the commute of choice for someone like me staying in the east to venture to the western or northern ends of Singapore.
Each time I had to walk through the station, I couldn't help but to notice how disarrayed the placement of signage (official or makeshift ones) can be.
One's commute may or may not be long — fleeting even to some —but surely the environment plays a role towards the everyday commuting experience. Thus, I've embarked on this project and journey to explore how design can help improve it.
Top image: https://unsplash.com/@jonkhoo
Photos taken for research purposes. What I've noticed is a general sense of visual disarray as I walked through these stations.
At times, tiny print-outs are pasted or held up at the most random of places that make little sense. And even if they are placed in areas that see heavy footfall, they tend to go unnoticed.
And at other times, larger print-outs are pasted next to tiny original signage that are difficult to be seen. Or in a narrow amount of space, everything is pasted so closely to each other that there's hardly any breathing space.
Aside from these, there is a lack of visual harmony colours seem to clash, as do the many kinds of typefaces being used.
The current map on the left features the orange Circle Line as a key focal point by using a circular shape true to its name — unlike the more angular one in its earlier version (right). The train lines and stations are now housed within what's supposed to be the main Singapore island. Yet, it looks out of shape just so to suit the layout of the railway network.
To also think about: doing away with the name System Map (rather technical-sounding) and instead using a name that's friendly and intuitive, such as Railway Map, Transit Map or Rail Network Map.
Hereby presenting...
The proposed railway map presents a geographically-based placement of stations that conjures the distinct shape of the island — all while using a palette that's mostly earthly and matched with vibrant colours to represent our tropical profile and unique flora and fauna respectively.
This map takes inspiration from the current map that features the Circle Line as the key focal point, but strives to create an even more accurate depiction by mapping the stations relative to their real locations (as much as possible).
It also keeps the legend simpler and at one corner, so that more attention could be given to the railway lines and stations.
And what better way than using otters to present this map. These cheeky little creatures are much-loved and thriving in Singapore, often seen moving from place to place. Perhaps bringing them onboard (as official mascots) could be one way to build brand identity and loyalty.
Above: a salute from the Otter Captain as he presents the redesigned railway map. Below: a cleaner version for actual placement and usage at the stations.
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A proposed "Next Stop" announcement to be shown on the train's monitors.
A proposed layout for the underground train platform with advertisements.
An atomic approach for the signage design through the mix of directional arrows, distance or station information and/or icons, so as to allow for a consistent visual language.
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The warm, earthly tones could also seep into the brand identity, like the staff attire for instance.
At times, staff might have to work underground, outdoors, or non-air-conditioned environments. A proposed mix of polo tee with matching chino pants (or berms even) could make them feel better at work under the hot and humid tropical weather we get here.
Chanced upon this lovely illustration from our Land Transport Authority while exiting Hillview Station along the Downtown Line.
I often enjoy seeing such well-designed ad placements from our various government agencies, as it shows how much importance they are giving towards design.
Notice the messaging at the end of the wall sticker that reads: "We'll keep the improvements going, and together we'll get there." It will be great too if citizens could come forth to add to this dialogue too — akin to a feedback loop on how we can all improve our everyday commute.
Or perhaps even better, our everyday life.
https://unsplash.com/@singaporestockphoto
