This project involved designing a multiscale road map taxonomy to organize and visualize spatial data at varying levels of detail. The taxonomy was developed using Adobe Illustrator and emphasized clear cartographic hierarchy, progressive feature visibility, and scale-dependent design principles commonly used in digital and web-based mapping systems.

The primary objective of the project was to create a structured road map-style basemap capable of supporting smooth transitions between national and local mapping scales. To meet the project requirements, the taxonomy was designed across 10 zoom levels, ranging from z5 (1:17,920,000) to z14 (1:35,000), progressively increasing in detail from broad national extents to small-town-level mapping. A muted and neutral land palette was intentionally used throughout the design to ensure that transportation networks remained the dominant visual element across all scales.

A secondary component of the project involved selecting and classifying ten feature classes across point, line, and polygon geometries. These classes were chosen to represent common road map elements, including transportation networks, hydrography, administrative boundaries, transit infrastructure, and land-use classifications. Each feature class was evaluated based on its relative importance and appropriate visibility across different zoom levels.

Particular emphasis was placed on developing a strong visual hierarchy between feature classes. Feature visibility, line weights, label sizes, colour casing, and symbol complexity were progressively adjusted across scales to maintain clarity while minimizing visual clutter. Transportation networks were prioritized within the visual hierarchy, while secondary transit systems and contextual layers were intentionally subdued to preserve readability and navigational focus. Labelling strategies were carefully developed to reinforce hierarchy and support readability throughout the taxonomy.

The project also explored cartographic generalization principles commonly used in modern web mapping environments. Information density was strategically controlled across zoom levels to ensure that only the most relevant features were displayed at smaller scales, while additional detail and feature complexity were progressively introduced at larger scales.