Seats of London: A Field Guide to London Transport Moquette Patterns

Moquette is the carpet-like fabric covering the seats of London's Tubes, buses, trams, and Overground trains. It has a long history of design excellence, with top artists like Paul Nash and Enid Marx commissioned to create patterns. Today, each line has its own unique, color-coordinated moquette pattern. Andrew Martin has written a guide to all these patterns, from the first horse bus to the latest Tube train.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2019
Publisher: Safe Haven Books

London's iconic public transportation system boasts a wide array of vehicles, including the iconic Tube, buses, trams, and Overground trains. These vehicles are not only a means of transportation but also a testament to the city's rich design heritage. One of the materials used to cover the seats in these vehicles is moquette, a carpet-like fabric that adds a touch of elegance and comfort to the journey.

London Transport has always been committed to delivering the best design possible. From the stunning art deco Tube stations on the Piccadilly Line to the elegant Johnston typeface and the iconic Harry Beck Tube map, the organization has consistently sought excellence in every aspect of its operations. This commitment to design extends even to the fabrics that cover the seats in its buses and Tube trains.

Moquette is a type of fabric that has been used for centuries to create luxurious and durable carpets. It is known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, making it a popular choice for high-end furniture and upholstery. In the 1930s, top artists like Paul Nash and Enid Marx were commissioned to design patterns for moquette. These artists brought their unique styles and perspectives to the fabric, creating a range of designs that were both beautiful and functional.

Today, moquette is still used in the design of public transportation seats in London. Every line, including Crossrail and the Overground, has its own unique color-coordinated moquette pattern. These patterns are carefully designed to reflect the character and history of the respective lines, adding a sense of identity and charm to the transportation experience.

In conjunction with the London Transport Museum, which houses the definitive London Transport moquette archive, Andrew Martin has written a delightful and comprehensive guide to all these patterns. The book, titled "Moquette: A Guide to London's Transport Fabrics," offers a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of moquette in London. It features stunning photographs of the original designs and detailed descriptions of the patterns used in different periods.

From the first horse bus to the latest Tube train, the book covers a wide range of transportation vehicles. It provides a historical context for the development of moquette and its role in shaping the design of public transportation in the city. Martin also shares interesting anecdotes and stories about the artists and designers who have contributed to the evolution of moquette over the years.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is the way it showcases the creativity and innovation that have gone into the design of moquette. The patterns used in public transportation seats are not just functional but also visually appealing. They range from intricate geometric designs to floral motifs and abstract patterns. Each pattern is unique and reflects the personality of the respective line.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, moquette is also known for its durability and easy maintenance. It is resistant to wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. It is also easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that the seats remain fresh and hygienic throughout the day.

Moquette has become an iconic symbol of London's public transportation system. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the journey, making it a pleasure to travel on the city's buses and Tube trains. The pursuit of excellence in design by London Transport has not only improved the transportation experience but also contributed to the city's rich cultural heritage.

In conclusion, moquette is a beautiful and durable fabric that has been used for centuries to create luxurious and functional carpets. In the context of London's public transportation system, it has become an iconic symbol of the city's design heritage. Andrew Martin's "Moquette: A Guide to London's Transport Fabrics" is a delightful and comprehensive guide to all the patterns used in public transportation seats in the city. The book offers a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of moquette and showcases the creativity and innovation that have gone into its design. Whether you are a transportation enthusiast or a design aficionado, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore the world of moquette and the rich design heritage of London.

Weight: 398g
Dimension: 162 x 160 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781916045316