A Brief Look at 'Transport'

Following on from the entry on Irish road signs, it seemed appropriate to look at the typeface used. Transport was developed in the UK by Margaret Calvert and John Kinneir, who are also responsible for the Calvert and Rail Alphabet typefaces used on the Tyne & Wear Metro and British Rail networks. Since its development, its usage has spread internationally, particularly among the former British Empire, but also notably on new road signs in Spain.

I like this clear, sans serif typeface because it is a refreshing break from Helvetica. While I like Helvetica, it is not the only sans serif typeface that should be admired. 'Transport' has a clean, clear and friendly appearance that still retains integrity through its consistent weighting and 45 degree terminals.

Compare this to another transport typeface to the left, Brusseline. I have mixed feelings about Brusseline. While I like its attempts at being friendly while retaining clarity, I also feel it is verging on being fussy with the slightly curved ends of the letters which in some place almost become a serif. Often when designers have attempted to create a friendly sans serif typeface, they have compromised its purpose to an extent. I therefore admire Calvert's and Kinneir's work in succesfully creating an easy to use, friendly typeface that also isn't fussy.