Navigating the Sac State campus can be a frustrating experience, as the current wayfinding signs often fail to provide clear and effective guidance. This project focuses on redesigning the campus wayfinding system, specifically improving the route from Parking Structure V to Riverside Hall. My role was to develop a cohesive signage system that aligns with the Sacramento State brand while also proposing mockups with projected materials that enhance the overall usability and aesthetic of the campus.
Illustrator
Photoshop
Brand Design
Prototyping
Mockups
Brand Design
Experience Design
Feb-March 2023
(1 month)
The primary goal of this project was to transform the campus wayfinding system into an intuitive and user-friendly experience that allows students, staff, and visitors to easily navigate through the Sac State campus. By redesigning the signage, the objective was to reduce confusion and frustration, ensuring that users can effortlessly find their way on campus. The redesign aimed not only to enhance the functional aspect of navigation but also to create a visually cohesive system that reflects the Sacramento State brand, contributing to a more welcoming and efficient campus environment.
I was responsible for redesigning the campus wayfinding signs, specifically covering the route from Parking Structure V to Riverside Hall. My deliverables included creating all three types of signs in the wayfinding system—directional, informational, and identification signs—along with detailed placement maps for each sign.
To better understand the existing issues, I conducted a site visit and attempted to navigate from Parking Structure V to Riverside Hall relying solely on the current campus signage. It quickly became apparent how challenging it was to find my way through the expansive campus. Some signs included campus maps, but these were overly detailed, industrial black-and-white maps with precise measurements that were difficult to read and offered little practical help for navigation.
The redesigned signage system embraces Sac State’s commitment to sustainability, modern aesthetics, and positive user experience. The signs feature a wooden texture that evokes a sense of warmth and sustainability, paired with Sac State’s secondary color palette to create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. To reinforce the modern feel of the brand, I selected the sans-serif typeface “Mundial,” which offers a clean and contemporary look, ensuring that the signage is both functional and visually appealing.
To enhance clarity and usability, I streamlined the existing campus map by removing unnecessary details, making pathways and buildings easier to identify while preserving the map's accuracy. I introduced symbols for parking and food, enabling users to quickly locate essential amenities. Buildings were colored in black for contrast, while recreational outdoor facilities were highlighted in beige. Landmark buildings were distinguished with a bright brown color to ensure they stood out prominently, guiding users more effectively across the campus.
Directional signs are strategically placed around campus to guide people to their destinations. These signs will display the names of lecture halls and buildings located within the specific zone, along with a zone map to provide clear visual cues.
The Identification Signs are designed with two laser-cut aluminum panels featuring the building's name. The interior of the cut-out letters is filled with the zone's designated color, creating a see-through effect. A piece of zone-colored acrylic is sandwiched between the panels and extends slightly on the side, indicating the building’s purpose. Additionally, LED light strips are installed along the edges of the acrylic to illuminate the sign at night, making the building name visible in low-light conditions.
Informational signs are placed at the entrance of each building, providing students, professors, and visitors with details about the majors or departments housed within the building.
The Directional Sign will be crafted from redwood veneer, which aligns with Sac State’s branding and stands out against the campus's natural surroundings. Redwood is also naturally resistant to rot, insects, and weather, making it a durable choice.
For the colored sections, sign-grade polycarbonate will be used. This UV-resistant thermoplastic is stronger than acrylic, highly durable, and ideal for Sacramento’s hot summers, where temperatures can exceed 100°F.
The "zone A-H" top section of the Directional Sign and the metallic surface of the Identification Sign will feature silver brushed Aluminum Composite Material (ACM). ACM is easy to cut, fabricate, and install, making it perfect for laser-cut letters on the Identification Sign. It also offers excellent UV resistance, scratch resistance, and weatherability, and is easy to clean.
This wayfinding project has been a pivotal learning experience in my design career. I explored various types of signage, including Directional, Identification, Informational, and Regulatory Signs. I improved my skills in interpreting site maps, aligning maps with user perspectives, and integrating “you are here” indicators.
I also gained insights into campus wayfinding systems, including zoning, landmark-based navigation, and materials for sign construction. Unlike traditional flat design, wayfinding design requires consideration of dimensional elements like sign thickness, font size, and durability.
These new challenges have deepened my understanding and expertise in the specialized field of wayfinding design.
