How to build a colors of time map

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Colors of time map

Maps do more than show location or quantity. They can reveal historical data too. To show when buildings were constructed, style them with color. ArcGIS Online has map styles specifically created to reveal patterns in time. This map example explores new construction over time in Rotterdam, Netherlands.  The middle date is set as May 14, 1940, the day World War II started. By applying this time style to a meaningful date, the map's story comes to life. 

Key steps

  • Select a basemap to fit your topic

    Basemaps give your map context for the story you are telling. Change the basemap to “Imagery with Labels” to provide a meaningful background for building footprints.

  • Change the style

    In ArcGIS Online, select "Change Style" for your layer. Choose a date attribute to explore. Changing the style will show the age of the buildings.
    See how to change the style

  • Adjust default map settings

    Select the “Continuous Timeline (Color)” style with the “Before and After” theme. Using this style and theme, we can set the middle value to May 14, 1940 to see which buildings were built before and after World War II.
    Learn more about style and theme

  • Explore the color ramps

    Browse the available color ramps to choose the best color for the story. To see age of buildings, choose the blue/yellow/red ramp. Red represents the newest, while you use colors to highlight before, during, and after your set date.
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