Emily Carr Wayfinding System Redesign

description

This is a collaborative project to redesign the current Emily Carr wayfinding system. I collaborated with Danica Norton, where we developed the concept together, and then I was in charge of the production of the isometric map, as Danica was in charge of the making of the signage. We feel that we successfully analyzed and developed the wayfinding system.

Instead of following the conventional way of signage designs, we developed this idea of a 3D arrow pointing towards the actual direction at the side of the signage. Dividing each direction into sections vertically, the 3D arrows will either be on the left or the right side depending on the direction. A yellow line is displayed beside the words and numbers to indicate where the arrow is for that section to prevent confusion, because if the arrow is pointing forward, viewers may not see the arrow if they are standing directing in front of the signage. The signage is also double sided; therefore, information is visible for viewers from both front and back, while the arrows function for both sides. The reason to make an isometric map was not only for aesthetic purposes, but also allowing the viewer to have a clearer understanding of where exactly he/she is, thus easily find the path to his/her destination, because a the dimensional form is in the same positioning of the actual area, which a 2-dimensional map cannot display the same effect. Nevertheless, there is a 2D brochure beside the map for visitors to take if they are not confident with viewing the map alone, and thus follow the map as they find their destination. Each area is color-coded for clearer distinctions. The room number signs follow its color code so that the finder can easily distinguish what type of room it is (i.e. blue—office, yellow—classroom, etc.).

This new system is more understandable, cohesive, and visually intriguing than the current system. The production of this wayfinding system redevelopment has not only provided an opportunity for us to know more about the campus, but also a great learning experience in wayfinding system design.