In project design, incorporating effective wayfinding strategies can significantly enhance the user experience within a building. Nour Abu Ghazaleh, a seasoned Project Designer based in Croatia, shares valuable insights on approaching and implementing successful wayfinding strategies in a project.
Understanding the Foundation: Thorough Building Analysis
Nour emphasises the importance of thoroughly analysing the building before diving into the design of wayfinding elements. Knowing the ins and outs of the layout is important, from identifying entry and exit points to mapping out user journeys. This foundational step allows strategists to understand the unique logic of each building—a crucial factor in creating an effective wayfinding system.
Cracking the Logic: Tailoring Strategies to Building Processes
“Each building has its logic,” says Nour, acknowledging that understanding and working with this logic is crucial. To ensure success, it’s imperative to decipher the intricacies of the space. Questions like which elevator provides the shortest journey to a specific destination or how to navigate to a particular area after an event are crucial considerations. Project designers can craft a wayfinding strategy that aligns with user needs by matching the building processes, removing communication noise, and meticulously packaging the information.
Logical Building Zoning: Enhancing User Comprehension
Since users rarely traverse an entire building, Nour suggests implementing logical building zoning. Breaking down the space into smaller, easily understandable micro-locations simplifies navigation. This approach is particularly beneficial in high-stress environments, such as healthcare projects, where clarity and efficiency are essential for patients and staff.
Signs as Manifestations of Strategy
Once the strategy is tailored to the building, Nour notes that signs become a manifestation of this well-thought-out plan. Rather than isolated elements, signs are integrated components of a comprehensive wayfinding strategy. Project designers can ensure that the built environment guides individuals through the space by aligning the signage with the user’s logical expectations and journey.
In conclusion, Nour’s insights highlight the importance of a strategic approach to wayfinding in project design. By delving into the nuances of the building, understanding its unique logic, and tailoring strategies to user needs, project designers can create an effective wayfinding system that enhances the overall user experience. The art of wayfinding, as outlined by Nour Abu Ghazaleh.
About Nour Abu Ghazaleh
Nour Abu Ghazaleh is an experienced professional with a diverse interior design and project management background, particularly within the healthcare sector. With a notable tenure at Sidra Hospital in Doha, one of the Gulf region’s premier women’s and children’s speciality hospitals, Nour gained valuable expertise in facilities and design. Transitioning from interior design, Nour is now concentrating on wayfinding and signage project design at the Modulex office in Croatia. In her current role, she collaborates on wayfinding strategy development and oversees technical implementation and project management, reflecting her commitment to enhancing user experiences in various environments.
