Because of my love for travel I find transit maps the most interesting and found the book, Transit Maps of the World, to be one of my greatest collections of transit maps out there. It includes New York City’s Subway Map, fourth on the list of most used metro systems in the world, and dates back original designs from 1905. (Speaking of the most used metro systems, it’s a good thing we are not #1 like Tokyo.)

Somehow I missed one of the greatest map releases last year. Massimo Vignelli has updated his original 1972 Map of New York City’s Subway and Men’s Vouge gave away a limited edition of 500. Vignelli thinks the current subway map is loaded with confusing information. Perhaps MTA should consider adapting and replacing the existing map?

See Massimo Vignelli explain his 1972 NYC Subway Map in an outtake from the film Helvetica.

I’ve worked on all kinds of maps. One of my favorites is the Cushman & Wakefield Manhattan map. This huge map covers most of the city of NY. From 65th Street to Battery Park, it’s a pretty well detailed and designed map (if I do say so myself). One cool thing about the map is the way we use color to show the kind of property it is, whether it’s a retail, residential or an office building. The New York Times wrote an article about the map and C&W liked it so much, they even made a pocket size version.

Getting the right information for the map was hard work. Alicia Dauro (Cushman & Wakefield researcher who worked on the map) went around the entire city making sure we had the most updated information. There was a new building being developed in practically every other block. She would call and email me about 10 times a day with an update to the map. I’m sure she was just as glad it was over as we all were.

But for the most part, this map was a cool experience. I’ve learned a lot about NY and itsĀ routes, buildings, and great points of interests. Next time there’s a subway strike, I’ll know exactly where to go.