Green Lake Park Wayfinding

Environmental graphic
Timeframe

8 weeks

Roles

Research, wayfinding, experiential, environmental, Illustration, layout.

Tools

Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign

Overview

Green Lake Park’s wayfinding and signage system is in dire need of an upgrade. The current signage lacks consistency in color, typography, and overall visual aesthetic, making navigation for park-goers a confusing and unappealing experience. It’s time to bring a fresh and friendly touch to the park by modernizing the signage with a more cohesive design and using simple, straightforward language.

Challenge
Develop a unified and user-friendly environmental design system that guides visitors through the park and make them feel connect to the space. By incorporating fascinating natural fact, delightful public art installations, and utilizing large public spaces to their fullest potential.

Research

Prior to establishing the design approach, I conducted a visit to Green Lake Park in order to assess the current system of signage. My first visit to Green Lake Park was full of surprises. I was struck by the peaceful and natural beauty of it. The park itself is gorgeous and offers plenty of enjoyable activities.

Despite its many positive attributes, the wayfinding and signage systems could use some improvement. Some signs are faded, damaged, and positioned at heights that make them difficult to see. Additionally, the green color of the signs blends into the environment and lacks consistency with the park’s playful aesthetic. Upgrading the signage design and placement would elevate the overall experience at this stunning park.

Current Regulatory Sign

Current Courtesy Rule Sign

Current Orientation Sign

Visual Design Concept

Color: The current main color of the signage, green, easily blends into the background and goes unnoticed by visitors. To address this, I’ll be using more eye-catching vibrant colors such as blue and yellow orange to make the signs more noticeable. This way, visitors will easily be able to locate the signs and utilize them for orientation purposes.

Typography: In terms of typography, I’ll be using a clean and simple San-serif font with a big open counter space that is easily legible from a distance. This will ensure that visitors can quickly and easily read the signs and understand the information being conveyed.

Icon: Finally, I’ll be creating a set of geometric icons that are easy to understand across language barriers. These icons will provide a visual representation of the different activities and facilities available at the park, making it easier for visitors to find what they’re looking for.

Overall, my design approach will aim to improve the visitor experience by making the signage system more user-friendly and visually appealing.

Point of Interest Sign

Topic: "Fish of Green Lake: A Window into the Underwater World”

Concept: Visitors to Green Lake will appreciate the topic of fish species. Exploring the diverse fish and their behaviors at the park is both enjoyable and educational for all ages. Whether you're a fisherman or simply interested in the lake's ecosystem, learning about the fish adds excitement and understanding. It also helps visitors identify their catches and promotes conservation awareness.

Public Art/ Placemaking

Concept: My public art and placemaking will add to the enjoyment of the park in a few ways. Firstly, it’ll bring a fun and playful touch to the park. The fish-shaped benches will not only provide seating for visitors but also act as a unique attraction that people will love to take pictures with. Secondly, it’ll also offer an educational opportunity for visitors, as the different species of fish displayed on the benches will give them a chance to learn about the wildlife in the park. Overall, my public art and placemaking will bring a new level of excitement and engagement to the park, making it a more enjoyable experience for all who visit.

Material: Precast concrete

Dimension: 13’’ x 9’’

Final Insight

By adding vibrant colors, easy-to-understand icons, and unique public art pieces, visitors will have a more engaging and memorable experience in the park. I believe that this will create a better connection to the park and the city, making it a must-visit destination for all.

Completing this project provided me with valuable skills in environmental design and wayfinding strategies. I also learned how to create an engaging and enjoyable experience for park visitors by considering their needs, preferences, and behaviors.