As a long-time London resident, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with the underground, and while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, there are definitely some stations that seem to draw more criticism than others.
In my opinion, stations like Bank and Moorgate often get a bad rap for their outdated aesthetics and confusing layouts. However, I believe there are a few factors that contribute to the perceived unattractiveness of these places:
Historical Context: Many of these stations were built in an era before aesthetics were a priority in urban design. They have a certain charm, reflecting the industrial past of London.
Functionality Over Form: In a city where millions commute daily, practicality often takes precedence over appearance. Stations like Waterloo and Hammersmith are criticized for their design, but they serve a vital purpose.
Maintenance Issues: Some stations show their age due to a lack of updates. Areas that are poorly maintained can become gloomy, even if they once had character.
That said, I think it’s also important to highlight the beauty found in some underground stations.
My Take on London’s Underground Aesthetics
As a long-time London resident, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with the underground, and while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, there are definitely some stations that seem to draw more criticism than others.
In my opinion, stations like Bank and Moorgate often get a bad rap for their outdated aesthetics and confusing layouts. However, I believe there are a few factors that contribute to the perceived unattractiveness of these places:
That said, I think it’s also important to highlight the beauty found in some underground stations.