Wayfinding - Initial Ideas

Colour Lines:

Our first initial idea was to take coloured lines that would then lead to different departments in the building. Although after a group discussion evaluating the initial ideas we considered the difference this would make to the building. The colours that are linked to the different departments this would mean the none of the rest of the building could have any other colour, which would already breach the design of the building clashing against the black and gold exterior.
The colour lines would also create confusion about what directions people should go in to be able to get to particular parts of the building. This would mean that directions in form of type would also need to be added. It would also mean that signage would be needed to tell the users which of the lines to follow to which departments, which would, therefore, defeat the idea of using lines to simplify the process in the first place.

Traditional metal signage: 

This method keeps with the traditional values and familiarity of wayfinding systems. The materials that would be used would be metal and wood, the metal sheets would have the directions and departments laser cut out of them. The letters that are cut out are reused, placed onto chipboard, which eliminates any wastage of the materials. This method also is a representation of some of the work that the uni do, such as letterpress and laser cutting. Although this idea is familiar and wouldn't take any explaining, it eliminates the possibility of creating an accessible wayfinding system as there would only be room for the one physical language; it could be combatted by making widely understood symbols.

Metal Grid: 

Our third idea takes inspiration from the idea of having a system which is constantly interchangeable. A basic infrastructure would be put into place all over the building using a brushed industrial bronze metal, complimenting the golden and black exterior metal of the new university building. These bars would be put around various walls in the university, basic planks could be used to direct people around the building. This would fit the brief in making the wayfinding able to evolve and remain appropriate as the boards that would be attached would simply hook on and therefore be interchangeable. This also means that student work could be displayed and the boards could be changed around for certain exhibitions to suit the style of branding. The only issue of this is that it would require regular printing for the different boards to be constructed, height and levels must also be taken into consideration to avoid health and safety issues.

Chosen Idea: 
We have chosen to further develop the metal grid system, as it is most appropriate for the brief and what we have all agreed on as a group. We will further be asking questions to industry professionals about the materials that could be used.