An easy to use orientation strategy, clear vehicular graphics and pedestrian-focused wayfinding and directories forms the foundation of the wayfinding and signage Master Plan for the sprawling University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City. Working in collaboration with University planners, Seattle WA-based design firm, Michael Courtney Design, developed a comprehensive master plan focused on user-friendly elements to replace the worn out signage program on the urban campus.
Enhancing the Pedestrian Experience
The University has developed a pedestrian friendly campus and the priority of the wayfinding Master Plan was to further enhance the pedestrian experience. With that in mind, MCD developed a special program for the Pedestrian Directories that sets the signage apart from any similar project: relevant stories about the neighborhood and University history were embedded into the Pedestrian Directories with photos of nearby buildings. The photos were the result of a University team member’s suggestion. As many University of Utah campus buildings look similar, adding photos to the signs provides significant assistance to visitor recognition (“Oh, that’s the Student Union.”). These directories are important in both wayfinding as well as the overall user experience and also assist with user orientation.
