The problem with design classics is that, by merit of their brilliance, they become so ubiquitous that they practically disappear from the public consciousness. Still, if someone took away our Oyster cards, say, or changed the tube map, there'd be a torch-bearing mob encircling City Hall before you could say 'mind the gap'.
As new book 'Frank Pick's London: Art, Design and the Modern City' illustrates, London's transport network changed the face of the city throughout the 20th century. Not simply by getting us from A to B, but also with its constant stream of innovative, pioneering world-leading design. Here's our pick of ten of the best for your appreciation.
'Frank Pick's London: Art, Design and the Modern City' by Oliver Green is out in November from V&A Publishing, priced £25.00 (hardback). Available from the V&A Shop or online at www.vandashop.com. All images are copyright London Transport Museum
The next time you see an unruly youth using a tube seat as a foot rest, give them a stern warning and a history lesson about London transport's gloriously durable moquette seating, which was introduced in 1938 and produced by lauded textile designers, rather than factory grunts. Then run away before they start shouting dubstep lyrics at you.
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