The Underground Collection

The London Underground map and the original Standard Coolicon lampshade both launched in 1933. Coolicon lampshades were later used extensively in backrooms and offices throughout the Underground rail network. Owing to this historic relationship between the two, Coolicon Lighting is now the only company in the world with a license to use the first edition map, true to Harry Beck’s design, on our products in this way.

Beck’s map was the first step in creating a coherent design throughout the London Underground, later influencing how rail systems present their navigation graphically worldwide. Drawing from his experience as an engineering draughtsman, Beck mapped the complex tube route in the same colour coordinated format found in electrical diagrams.

As this is the original map, there are stations present that have long since closed, or some that are missing as they opened after the publication of the map. It may not be the best for navigating modern London but beautifully captures a moment in history. 

The additional map detail to the iconic Coolicon reinforces the generational skills of our master craftsmen. Marking the final step in this wet enamelling process, the application of the map is aligned and executed by an extremely steady hand.

Each Vitreous Enamel coloured line is layered with precision and intricacy to recreate the map. Each colour resides at a minutely different level within the shade due to the varying oxide and mineral compositions of each delicately weighed enamel; reflecting the nature of the underground network itself.

Mirroring the enamel signs found throughout the London Underground, the Coolicon Underground Collection lampshades incorporate the iconic Roundel as seen in 1933. Enamelled into the reflector, the Roundel can be seen when looking into the lampshade opposite the Coolicon badge perfectly encapsulating the two historically influential designs.