Wayfinding
Regarding
wayfinding, it might be noted that after you
get there, in an ideal world, there would. There
would be very little that needs to be told about
where to go, because on arriving at unfamiliar
destination the next directions would be self – evident.
Within the best architecture, finding one’s
way around should be hopefully require a relatively
minimal effort and, at least, little signage.
If some sign is needed at all, it should be
one of confirmation, to make a visitor comfortable
with the path taken. It is far better to say
too little than too much. To quote Mies “Less
is more”
Signage either adds degree of quality to the
environment in which it finds itself or takes
something away, diminishing the experience by
being distracting to a visitor. If a message
is there and is unnecessary, that’s a serious
distraction that should be avoided.
If a message is too big or too visually loud,
if it overwhelms and negates other things such
as the feeling of architectural materials, the
play of light reflections, the texture of surfaces,
transparency, distant views, and a myriad of
other environmental elements, including the presence
and contribution of art or even the presence
of other people, then the message is not quite
right.
Too small a message or a direction misplaced
by being too low or too high when its meaning
must be instantly grasped and acted upon, doesn’t
help those who are insecure or hesitant and in
need of held.
The best signage is in the right place at the
right time, considers the viewer, and is neither
overly repetitive not demanding.
In fact, the best signage seems to take on an
air of invisibility. It’s there, but is
taken in and taken for granted.
Of course, the opportunity exists for signage
to add considerably to the excellence of any
built environment, adding, by careful attention
to details, colour, compatible materials, and
most importantly good typography that is easy
to read and has character, often to reinforce
the style and standards of the place, institution,
or company which stands behind it.
Source –
Signage and Wayfinding Design
A complete guide to creating Environmental
Graphic Design Systems
– Chris Calori
What
is Wayfinding?
Wayfinding
Sign Program
Recommendations
for signage
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