Working with Henning Larsen Architects, Modulex have project managed both external and internal signage for the Lillebælt Academy, Denmark supporting the design concept and wayfinding strategy developed by the International architectural firm.
The academy supports a total of 3,000 students, offering a great variety of spaces within both new and existing buildings. The spatial hierarchy vary from informal, spontaneous meeting places on the square and in the cafeteria, to smaller more intimate venues in the atrium. Consequently, the challenge was to efficiently move students around the campus whilst developing a scheme which would remain in sympathy with the architectural context of the building.
Before developing the graphic concept for Lillebælt Academy, studies were undertaken by the Design Department at Henning Larsen Architects of the building’s features and users which enabled a wayfinding strategy to be developed. It was essential that the scheme used materials, colours and workmanship which reflected and respected the brand values of the Lillebælt Academy whilst supporting the design concept and wayfinding strategy.
Modulex worked with the graphic designers at Henning Larsen Architects to develop the scheme, identifying materials and processes which would deliver the aesthetic requirements whilst providing suitable durability. The elements include a wide range of vinyl graphics, for both design details and practical signage, which guide students around the busy space. Tall directional graphics, where text was printed directly on the lacquered plywood, make for a permanent and durable finish which works particularly well when typographic elements are very small. The specialist equipment at the Modulex facility in Billund, Denmark enable Modulex to print directly onto almost any substrate providing hard wearing text on a material selected by the architect. Large graphics were required for the Auditorium glass windows which were also created by Modulex and applied by the team of skilled installers.
“It was important to create a clearly legible design to lead users around the academy using carefully selected fonts, colours, materials and pictograms that seem light and integrated.
The system consists of a number of elements that all must meet a number of functional requirements of visibility, durability and flexibility whilst creating an expression that is aesthetically appropriate for the project and in harmony with the architecture.
The sign design an integrated part of the building. Therefore, we often have very specific demands to our suppliers as to material, colours and workmanship. At times, this does definitely challenge our suppliers as our needs sometimes require new or alternative solutions” explains senior graphic designer at Henning Larsen Architects, Bodil Nordstrøm.
Modulex have worked on a number of prestigious projects with Henning Larsen Architects including the Danish Pavilion in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil commissioned by Visit Denmark for events during the 2016 Olympics.