Let’s start at the beginning, or wayfinding externally
The first and extremely important element of wayfinding are directional signs showing the way to the office of a given company. These signs, as well as the entire wayfinding system, should be consistent with the brand’s branding, refer to the colors or forms used in different areas of the company. In addition to an interesting idea that will draw the attention of the viewer and thus attract him or her to a given space, outdoor signs should also be made of durable materials that will not be damaged on a rainy or windy day.
Personalization
The directional sign system, as mentioned above, should be consistent with the brand and relate by means of color schemes, fonts on signboards, or graphics to the brand. It goes without saying that it must not “bite” with the style in which the office has been finished, which, however, is often a difficulty. And while the signs should be clearly visible, they should not focus all the attention on themselves.
Visibility key to success
Visibility – but not excessive – is the hallmark of a well-made directional sign system. Anyone looking for a way to a specific destination in a given space should easily find it by following the signs placed in the right places. Elements of wayfinding must be located exactly where a person who is looking for wayfinding would look, but at the same time they should not be the first element one sees when entering the office of a given company (the first should be the logo informing where one is).
Logotype
The central place in any office should be occupied by a logo that will make it clear to any user of the space where he or she is. The features it should have are, of course, consistency with the interior, visibility, appropriate size for the space in which it is located and a properly chosen form, which in more modern interiors can be, for example, in the form of led lettering.
Divisions of space in a company are sometimes necessary
Large office spaces, such as open space, sometimes require the use of certain divisions that allow zones with different functions to be separated from each other without putting up additional walls. This function can be fulfilled by a wayfinding system designating, for example, by means of different colors, individual zones in the company’s space. Green in the relaxation zone, blue in the kitchen, orange in the creative work area – what do you think?
Signage as part of wayfinding
An important element of wayfinding is signage, or functional signage, with which we can separate and mark individual zones, rooms or cabinets. Numbering and marking of individual rooms, especially in a large space, is a mandatory element. In addition, wall graphics, semaphores and other additions can be used to make the interior more welcoming.
Information boards
When visiting a place for the first time, we want to be well informed about what we can find and where. This is why wayfinding boards are essential in large companies or public places such as shopping malls, train stations or clinics. Like all other components of wayfinding, these boards should also fit in with the design of the entire interior and the company’s color scheme.
Maps an essential part of wayfinding in large spaces
An indispensable element of wayfinding used in large areas are maps, so that each user of the space can easily determine his or her location and the direction in which he or she wants to move.
In conclusion – visual messages should be as simple as possible and should be visible, but not overshadow the other elements of the space design with their presence. Let us know in the comments how you liked our post on wayfinding.
