Geotype Submission

The Geotype project charts the rich history of lettering and type forms that have established the identity of cities and towns around the world. Explore the map

How does this letter-form communicate its location?

The George Hotel dates back to 1423 and was originally a Coaching Inn, the letterform that adorns the façade gives the impression of this time – it has been repainted so probably won’t be original, but it looks convincing enough. During the Victorian period, the old, wooden beams of Tudor buildings were painted black to give a more historic look, I believe these letters would have been added at this time. I find the juxtaposition of the old letters with the new, dated, gaudy vinyl on painted aluminium panel signage quite revealing about the change in styles and tastes.

Location

King Street, Reading, UK