Stort Interview
Hwg Campus Lu Orienteringssystem · 10 spørgsmål
The idea was to bring together the design elements essential for communication and the architectural elements in one large framework.
Your innovative integration of architectural elements into the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System creates a distinct visual identity - could you elaborate on how you developed this harmonious relationship between the signage and the building's design elements?
The idea was to bring together the design elements essential for communication and the architectural elements in one large framework. The frame combines all the elements that are important for orientation and is also a recognizable element.
The color concept in the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System appears to prioritize both functionality and psychological impact - how did you determine the specific color palette to enhance navigation while promoting safety and confidence among students?
The color concept is based on the blue façade color of the new building. It is important that the contrast between the anthracite background and the chosen colors is also optimal for people with visual impairments.
Your choice of materials for the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System, particularly the combination of concrete, aluminum, and illuminated elements, creates a striking visual presence - what influenced your decision to blend these specific materials, and how do they contribute to the system's durability?
The robustness and durability of the materials were decisive factors in the selection process. Concrete panels, which are usually used as façade panels, stove-enamelled aluminum elements and solid-colored acrylic glass were used. It was important to choose materials with a matt surface in order to avoid reflections and ensure optimum legibility.
The Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System demonstrates remarkable attention to international accessibility - could you share your approach to developing a system that effectively guides students from diverse cultural backgrounds?
A bilingual system (German/English) was developed for the university. The use of pictograms ensures international comprehensibility. These visual symbols convey information without language barriers.
The implementation of the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System spanned from 2015 to 2024 - how did this extended development period influence the evolution of your design concepts and allow for technological innovations?
It is important to develop solutions that do not follow short-lived trends and appear outdated by the time they are implemented. The result of our work is a no-frills design that is reduced to the essentials and has its own identity.
The tactile elements and high-contrast features of the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System show exceptional consideration for visitors with visual impairments - could you detail the research and development process behind these accessibility features?
There is a tactile overview plan both in the outdoor area (campus plan) and on the first floor of the new building (overview plan). This is connected to the tactile guidance system from the site boundary. This gives students an overview of the entire campus and the facilities in the new building. The information is written in Braille and pyramid writing. The same applies to the door signs and handrail lettering. The entire planning was coordinated with a representative for people with disabilities.
In creating the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System, you achieved a balance between modern design and classic typography - how did you determine this specific aesthetic approach to ensure both contemporary appeal and timeless functionality?
Optimal legibility is the top priority for a signage system. Roboto is a neo-grotesque sans-serif font family developed by Google. Roboto is a variable font family that offers a comfortable and smooth reading experience. It is minimalist and highly functional and suitable for a wide range of optical sizes thanks to the extensive selection of weights and widths.
The illuminated features of the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System enhance nighttime visibility - could you explain how you integrated these lighting elements while maintaining the system's clean, minimal aesthetic?
The backlit elements were laser-cut from aluminum panels and backed with acrylic glass panels in various colors. The illumination is provided by LEDs. Due to the dark aura, the backlit information can be optimally recognized.
Your work on the Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System, recently recognized with a Bronze A' Design Award, showcases innovative solutions for campus navigation - how do you envision this system influencing future university wayfinding projects?
Even though navigation using smartphones continues to advance, our system for the HWG campus is an important part of finding your way around. The physical landmarks create trust and security.
The Hwg Campus Lu Wayfinding System serves approximately 4,500 students at the University of Business and Society - what specific user insights shaped your design decisions to accommodate such a diverse campus community?
The guidance system is important for visitors and newly arrived students every semester. It should convey a feeling of trust and security. It should take seekers by the hand, guide them, accompany them and make the space tangible until they reach their destination. This creates identification and identity.
