Illustrated maps, also known as pictorial maps, come in many different styles. Choosing the right style for a new custom map design is one of the first things a map illustrator needs to consider.

Is it meant to be a navigational aid that requires accuracy and clarity? Or is it designed to showcase specific features of a location and create a sense of excitement? It could be a combination of both, where geographic accuracy and eye-catching graphics need to be perfectly balanced.

In this article, I’ll showcase different styles of illustrated maps I’ve created and highlight the options that a map illustrator needs to consider when undertaking a new map project.

Illustrated maps with bold icons and quirky details

These illustrated maps feature bold icons, minimal geographic detail and are designed to attract the viewers’ attention. The large landmarks, giant food icons and quirky details focus on the historic and cultural features of a location. These type of illustrated maps are perfect to accompany a magazine article that highlights the attractions of an area and geographic accuracy is not the primary focus.

Navigational maps

The maps below are all accurate, to scale depictions of the site. If the map if designed to be used as a navigational aid for visitors, then geographic accuracy is key.

These 2D maps have accuracy and function as the priority. The Lander University campus map is designed to convey the location of the campus buildings and car parks. The Hedley Hall Woodland Trust map shows a clear walking route for visitors.

Illustrated 3D maps provide an easy-to-read visual of the physical features of an area. The layout of the buildings is easy to see in these illustrated 3D maps for St George’s school and Cure International hospitals.

Illustrated maps that combine clarity and artistic flourish

Another solution is to combine a geographically accurate, scale map, with enlarged illustrated icons. The large icons highlight important features of the map whilst not obscuring roads and buildings that are used for navigation.

This illustrated map for Kingcombe nature reserve features a 3D rendering of the visitor centre surrounded by large icons of the animals and insects that can be found there.

Another example of a map that combines large illustrations with clear geography is this map I created for Leeds Film Festival.

The city road network is clear to see and the illustrated building icons are placed around the border of the map. This approach provides an easy-to-read map with fun illustrated details.

How a map illustrator uses inset maps

Inset maps are a useful tool if you need to show an additional location but don’t want to stretch the boundaries of the map any further. The success of an attractive illustrated map often depends on a balanced composition. Inset maps show a new area or can be used to zoom in on a specific location.

The Petty Pool map above uses an inset map to zoom in and show the buildings in greater detail. The UNESCO map of the UK uses an inset map to include the Shetland Isles which are located further North.

In conclusion, a clear understanding of the intended usage of the map is crucial when briefing a map illustrator. This knowledge will help ensure that the map is effective in achieving its intended purpose, and meets the needs of its users.

If you’re in need of an illustrated map, feel free to get in touch and discuss your requirements.