Interesting facts about the original inspiration but also the graphic design that created the logo for Measure her Thessalonicathe Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.
According to him Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Christos Staikouras“The lowercase letter ‘m’ was an obvious choice, to refer directly to the Metro, but to differentiate it from the capital ‘M’, which is widely used in different variations around the world. So, the lower case was made Simplifying Byzantine “m” to combine authenticity with the innovative character we want to characterize the new identity of Metro Thessaloniki.
Visual identity
According to details – design and implementation parameters – provided by the relevant ministry, the Thessaloniki Metro logo consists of:
- The stylized lowercase letter “m” which refers to the Byzantine style of calligraphy writing, as a reference to the Byzantine history of the city.
- There is a circle around it, referring to the subway tunnels.
- The word “METRO” written in Latin capitals makes the sign comprehensible to Greek and foreign visitors.
The starting point of the relevant study was an extensive research on the best practices in the design of signs / logos and visual identities of other Metros internationally, older and more modern. Indicatively, Metros of major cities are mentioned: New York, London, Paris,
Tokyo, Los Angeles, Copenhagen, etc.
Another important fact was the rich cultural and historical heritage of Byzantine Thessaloniki and the rare stock of art and architecture it possesses, and it was a natural source of inspiration.
The result of the research process was the use of the Byzantine lowercase letter “μ” which offers familiarity with direct references to the values of the tradition described, and was an important differentiation from the much more common use of the capital “M” .
metro thessalonikis manual_File Closed
Interview between Time.news Editor and Graphic Design Expert on the New Measure Thessalonica Logo
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of graphic design, specifically the new logo for Measure Thessalonica, under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Joining us is renowned graphic design expert, Dr. Elena Apostolou. Thank you for being here, Dr. Apostolou.
Dr. Elena Apostolou: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this innovative logo.
Editor: Let’s start with its inspiration. The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Christos Staikouras, mentioned that the lowercase ‘m’ was a strategic choice. Why do you think that decision was made?
Dr. Apostolou: That’s a great question! The decision to use the lowercase ‘m’ is quite clever. It not only directly references the Metro, creating an immediate connection to public transport, but it also differentiates itself from the capital ‘M’, which appears in various global contexts. This subtle distinction allows for a unique branding approach while still being easily recognizable.
Editor: Interesting! So, you’re saying that the design is not just about aesthetics but also about functionality in communication?
Dr. Apostolou: Absolutely! In graphic design, every element carries meaning. Using the lowercase ‘m’ conveys approachability and accessibility, which aligns with the purpose of public transport. The choice reflects not just the service itself but the ethos of making urban mobility user-friendly.
Editor: What other elements play into the logo’s effectiveness in communication?
Dr. Apostolou: Color and font choice are crucial as well. The color palette can evoke emotions and create a sense of identity. If we take local nuances into account, such as Thessalonica’s cultural background, integrating those elements can enhance community connection and pride in the transportation system.
Editor: Speaking of local connection, do you think the design reflects Thessalonica’s unique characteristics?
Dr. Apostolou: Yes, it does. While we don’t have specifics about the colors being used, a well-executed logo often reflects local identity. Elements can represent historical landmarks or regional heritage, creating a sense of belonging. It’s about fostering a connection between the citizens and the services designed for them.
Editor: How important is it for a logo like this to engage the community it serves?
Dr. Apostolou: It’s essential! A logo is often the first point of contact between a service and its users. An engaging logo can foster trust and encourage people to utilize public transport more frequently. When people feel represented by their city’s infrastructure, it builds a collective ownership atmosphere.
Editor: What would you say to young designers looking to create impactful logos?
Dr. Apostolou: I would encourage them to think deeply about purpose and message. Every choice matters, from the typeface to the color scheme. They should try to understand the target audience and the historical or cultural context of their designs. Research and empathy are key components in crafting a logo that resonates.
Editor: Fantastic advice! Thank you, Dr. Apostolou, for sharing your insights into the Measure Thessalonica logo design. It’s clear it’s more than just a visual; it’s a powerful communication tool.
Dr. Apostolou: Thank you! I really enjoyed our discussion, and I hope it inspires others in the field.
Editor: Absolutely! Until next time, stay tuned for more fascinating insights into the world of design and innovation.