Image Credit : Studio Semaphore
Project Overview
Working with Lovell Chen Architects on the redevelopment of The University of Melbourne’s Old Quad, Semaphore was engaged to develop the wayfinding and signage design for the refurbishment of The University’s most historically significant building.
Project Commissioner
Project Creator
Team
David Williamson
Jess Caffin
Jordan Rowe
Emily Parker
Emma Petrillo
Project Brief
Signage design needed to feel cohesive with the historical context; complementing the existing architectural heritage detailing and finishes. We established a refined design language and selected high quality materials, such as brass, to achieve this. The outcome celebrated the building as an important campus landmark.
Project Innovation/Need
To minimise damage to the heritage surfaces signs were fixed into grout lines and existing fixing points which required careful coordination with the architect and signage fabricator. The engraved detailing required an extensive prototyping process to ensure that the desired appearance for messaging and graphics was achieved.
Design Challenge
The key projects challenges arose from the heritage significance and landmark status of the building. Careful consideration was required to ensure that surfaces were not compromised where sign elements were fixed. The authentic brass materiality required additional care during the fabrication stages
Sustainability
The overall forms of sign elements were consolidated to ensure efficient fabrication and minimal material waste. The durable materials chosen means that signs will have a long life span, while the flexible application of content means that individual messages can be updated easily without requiring the entire sign form to be replaced
Wayfinding
This award celebrates creative and innovative design in the ways people orient themselves in physical space, and navigate from place to place. Consideration given to signage and other graphic communication, clues in the building's spatial grammar, logical space planning, audible communication, tactile elements and provision for special-needs users.
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