Wayfinding with manhole covers

I have always been interested in the idea of using manhole covers as a distinguishing factor in urban environments. Here and there across the country (Minneapolis; New York City, now around Eastern Market in DC) there are good examples. Tokyo is really known for it. (See the book Designs Underfoot: The Art of Manhole Covers in New York City.)

Steven calls our attention to this blog entry, "Map Hole Points The Way," from Yanko Design.

The entry discusses a manhole cover based wayfinding system. Of course, you can also do this with "disks" embedded in the sidewalk. After all, there is something to be said for not having to wander out in the middle of the street to figure out where to go.

It's still a cool idea though.

Flickr photo of Chuo-Ko manhole cover in Osaka by jpellgen