Wayfinding
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Wayfinding is a method for relaying messages to help people navigate their way around a room, building or other unfamiliar environment.
It is particularly important in large, complex buildings, such as hospitals, educational facilities or transport terminals. Wayfinding can help create a positive impression of an organisation when it is implemented effectively.
[edit] Universal messaging
A uniform style is considered desirable for wayfinding consistency and clarity. Standardised colours, fonts, icons and sign shapes can also improve universal recognition.
The following colours are generally associated with specific basic responses:
These three colours are easily identified by most people, regardless of age and other demographic factors, but other colours are also commonly used to represent different common messages.
[edit] Forms of wayfinding
Signage is the most common form of wayfinding, but architectural features and other objects can also be used to guide people through buildings.
In multi-storey buildings, flooring and wall coverings can be colour coded for quick recognition. This technique is frequently used in large car parks, hospitals and care homes (particularly in those where residents may be living with vision or memory impairments). While colour coded finishes do not replace traditional wayfinding methods, such as directional arrows, pictograms or clearly worded signs and numbered floors, it can enhance it.
Lighting can also be used as a form of wayfinding, particularly in long corridors. Emergency exit lighting illustrates how wayfinding can be used to guide people to their destination.
Textures (particularly in floor coverings), ambient sounds (such a music) and even smells (such as those associated with kitchens or restaurants) can also inform wayfinding decisions.
Brand recognition can assist with wayfinding, particularly for commonly-recognised colours, logos and shapes, such as the Underground symbol, the golden arches and so on. Brand styles may also influence the design of wayfinding strategies and components.
[edit] Elements of effective wayfinding
Characteristics that might contribute to successful wayfinding include:
- Simplicity.
- Colour.
- Clarity.
- Size.
- Placement.
- Inclusivity.
- Hierarchy.
- Consistency.
NB On 2 April 2020, in response to the Building a Safer Future consultation, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP announced steps to introduce mandatory sprinkler systems and consistent wayfinding signage in all new high-rise blocks of flats over 11 metres tall. For more information see: Government response to the Building a Safer Future consultation.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Braille signage and accessibility.
- Building signage.
- Emergency lighting.
- Fire safety design.
- Inclusive design.
- Kiosk.
- Legibility.
- Means of escape.
- Neurodiversity in the built environment.
- Planning digital signage in new buildings.
- Safety signs
[edit] External references
- Building Regulations 2010 part B (Fire safety).
- Equality Act 2010.
Featured articles and news
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.