WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE
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Client: Royal Court Affairs, Oman
Location: Nizwa, Oman

Year: 2018-2023

Spaceagency Team: Sarah Manning, Peter Feldmann

Architect: Cox Architecture
Exhibition Design: EventComm

The Museum tells the story of Oman throughout the ages, including the renaissance period and has a dedicated exhibition area on the future development of the country. It was opened to the public in March 2023.

Spaceagency designed the wayfinding and Signage scheme as an integral part of the visitor experience. It forms an intermediary layer between the monumental scale of the architecture and the human scale.

We analysed expected visitor flows in close collaboration with the architects and exhibitions designers to determine the most useful locations for signage to both, reduce the quantity as much as possible and still ensure an intuitive and fluid visitor circulation.

It’s formal expression is based on analysing the distinct geometric language of the building and using that to inform the shape and size of wayfinding elements, including the graphic language. The result is a wayfinding scheme that is an integral part of the architecture.

Photo Credits: Peter Feldmann, Phil Handforth & Sami Khamis Sanjor Al Qawal

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE
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Client: Galaxy Entertainment Group
Location: Macau, China

Architect: 10 Design

Spaceagency Team: Peter Feldmann, Becky Li-Watson, Becki Kirk, Luisa Brito, Horatiu Valcu

Spaceagency were engaged by Galaxy Entertainment Group in Macau to develop the signage and wayfinding strategy for the latest ‘Phase 3C’ expansion of their existing Phase 2 property, adjacent to the new development.

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE
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Client: Infinitus
Location: Guangzhou, China

Spaceagency Team: Peter Feldmann, Junyi Bai, Becky Li-Watson, Carlos Martin, Alex Surikov

In collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects, Spaceagency developed the interior and exterior Wayfinding and Signage for the new Infinitus Corporate Headquarters.

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Spaceagency Project Team: Sarah Manning, Peter Feldmann, Nicola Lorusso, Magda Zdrojewski, Carlos Martin, Telli Nourkeyhani, Aidan Brown, Yasmina Yehia & Andy Pham

EXPO 2020 Wayfinding and Signage - Dubai, UAE

Client: EXPO 2020 Dubai

Location: Dubai, UAE,

Completion: Year 2021

Public Realm Design Direction – Asif Khan Studio

Urban Planning & Public Realm – Aecom

Al Sadu Weavers – Al Ghadeer Foundation

Pictogram Collaborators –Tinkah Fabricators – Pico, LPFlex, Pro-Lab, Unigraf, Signworks, Reptronics

Photo Credits: Jason O’Rear © 2021, Peter Feldmann

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Spaceagency Project Team: Sarah Manning, Aidan Brown, Nicola Lorusso, Carlos Martin, Alex Syniukov & Mina Demire

Collaborators:

Architect – OMA

Executive Architect – Gruen Associates

Structure, MEP, FACADES, FLS – ARUP

Performance Space Consultants – Theatre DNA

Landscape – Studio – MLA

Lighting – L’Observatoire International

Civil Engineering – Rhyton Engineering

Vertical Transportation – Syska Hennessy Group

Kitchen Food and Beverage – Clevenger Frable LaVallee, Foster Frable/Laschober+Sovich

Security – TRC

Client REP – Searock Staffold

Client Contractor – MATT Construction

Photo Credits: Jason O’Rear © 2021

Location: Melbourne, Australia
Date: 2013-2016
Client: Queensland Invenstment Fund / 7th Wave
Size: 150,000 m2
Project Partners: Acme, Softroom, Universal Design Studio, Seam, The Buchan Group
Status: Completed

Spaceagency was appointed by QIC, the Queensland Investment Fund, Australia to rethink the role of Signage and Wayfinding in retail environments.

As a prototype development for a new generation of shoppers and shopping, Spaceagency developed a comprehensive Wayfinding and Signage strategy for the Eastland Shopping Centre in Melbourne, Australia.

The Eastland Shopping Centre, located in the Ringwood suburb approximately 8km outside of downtown Melbourne, towards the Yarra Valley wine growing region, lies at the heart of a larger urban regeneration effort that includes upgraded and extend shopping and transportation facilities, a Town Square, Micro Brewery and Hotel as well as a community and education centre.

Spaceagency started with a fundamentally ‘urban’ take on shopping, following the notion that the exchange of goods and services lies at the heart of urban development.  

Our understanding  of ‘Eastland’ as an integral part to the urban fabric, and indeed it’s commercial catalyst, rather than an alien object that has been dropped into its environment. Since the start in the 1960’s as Myer’s department store, Eastand has continuously and organically grown. This ‘collage’ and layering of different stages development is an inherently urban process and full of conflicting ideas and principles. The role of the Wayfinding and signage in this context was to act as the glue linking the different fragments together.

We conducted extensive research into customer circulation patterns in retail environments and how wayfinding typically works in environments. We thoroughly analysed the existing centre with regards to decision points, route hierarchy and expected pedestrian footfall. Our key objectives included de-cluttering and reducing the amount of signage and creating something that would be simple, timeless and elegant – reinforcing the overall utopia vision.

This ambitious approach meant that we had do break with certain pre-conceived notions of what signage is in a retail environment. For example we abandoned colour-coded car parks, coloured major branding on the façade and many other.

Giving Dreamland a mature sense of wonder in the creation of a new era for the Kent coast heritage theme park
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Wayfinding, Interactive Landscape Installations
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Client Sands Heritage Ltd.
Location Margate, UK
Year 2017
Architect Aecom, D_Raw

In 2016 Spaceagency was appointed to work on the Wayfinding and interactive landscape installations for the relaunch of Dreamland heritage theme park in Margate, Kent. The park was being expanded to include a new event space to stage large scale concerts as well as installing many new attractions.  Spaceagency created a series of sculptural 3D Letters, made from the letters that form the work 'Dreamland'. Two sets of letters, starting at opposite ends of the park, are paired in sets on an upright and a laying down letter. This trail of installations provides orientation and wayfinding points and at the same time opportunities for sitting and resting.

We paired blackened steel on the side with mirror polished distressed steel at the front of the letters, the mirror reflecting the 'Otherworldlyness of 'Dream-Land' and the blacked steel providing a robust counterbalance to anchor the letters in the present day.

This concept enabled us to reinforce the notion of wonder, whimsy and discovery throughout the park through large scale 'scattered' and arranged text characters spelling out Dreamland but intrtoduced a  more  grounded and tactile material palette.

Hertiage and narrative information about the various rides and attractions is displayed on freestanding structures evocative of games of a bygone, romanticised era such as playing or tarot cards.

Location: Astana, Kazakhstan
Client: IT Engineering / The National Company
Design Partner: KCA International

Space Agency has been appointed as the wayfinding and signage designer for Expo 2017 in Astana, Kazakhstan.
The project includes wayfinding strategy and design proposals for the Expo period as well as its transformation in the post-Expo legacy mode. The masterplan has been designed by American firm AS+GG and includes a Museum of Future Energy, Thematic Pavilions, National and Corporate Pavilions, a hotel, congress hall, art centre, public space, offices, residential, bus station, coach station, taxi stands, police station and surface and underground parking. The theme of the Expo is Future Energy, and sub-themes are based on the 4 elements: air, fire, water and earth. Drawing on these themes, the design uses ancient alchemic symbols to signify the different zones of the masterplan with sacred geometric forms.

Space Agency was also employed to forecast circulation patterns iwithin the central Sphere Museum of Future Energy using Space Syntax. Spatial analysis software such as Space Syntax can be used to show how the behaviour of visitors to the Expo is determined by geometry and layout of space. The analysis and findings can be used to determine and influence spatial organisation and layouts.We have carried out two types of spatial analysis, visual integration and agent analysis for route choice. These studies assisted the client to understand the hierarchy of routes and best areas to place signage.

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE
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Client: Ministry of Investment
Location: Saudi Arabia

Year: 2022

Spaceagency Team: Sarah Manning, Peter Feldmann, Alessandro Cascone

We developed a form for a pavilion based on the concepts of Infinity and Unfold.

Infinity: A twisted surface with neither beginning nor end, representing infinity and ambition, expantion and perpetuity. Investing in Saudi Arabia is opening up an Infinity of possibilities of growth and investments.

Unfold: Dynamic, energetic, adaptable and powerful - those are adjective that refer to the Saudi Arabic landscape. Unfolding the potential of new business.

Spaceagency was commissioned to design the Wayfinding and Signage for the 2019 Panamerican Games in Lima, Peru.

Working with Pattern Design Architects we developed a wayfinding system taking inspiration from the traditional Inca Nazca lines. They are deeply rooted in the Peruvian Society and important part of everyday life.

The scheme was developed to a very compressed programme and tight budget and was completed on time, and on budget ahead of the official opening of the games.

Spaceagency, together with Weston Williamson + Partners, was appointed in 2018 by Network Rail to rethink and redesign the Wayfinding and Signage guidance for Network Rail’s Managed Stations in the UK.

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Identity, Wayfinding & Signage

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Client Network Rail

UK, Year 2020

Public Art

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Client: Miral Asset Managemenet

Team: Spaceagency with Peter Feldmann, Christina Morbi, Horatiu Valcu

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Year: 2018- 2020

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

EXHIBITION DESIGN
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Client: Dar wa Emaar
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Spaceagency Team: Nicola Lorusso, Nandha Kumar & Robert Chahine

Spaceagency was commissioned to conceive a pavilion for Dar wa Emaar, a Saudi Arabian construction company.

Our objective focussed around crafting a contemporary pavillion that would resonate with the essence of the company, with a strong focus on brand identity..

Product Design

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Client Framestore

Location New York

Year 2020

Creating a Seamless Passenger Experience on Arrival and Departure
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WAYFINDING, SIGNAGE
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Client BAA
Location London, UK
Year 2011-2012
Architect Aedas London

Spaceagency was appointed to develop a wayfinding and signage strategy for the forecourt and multi-storey car park to the new Terminal 2 at London Heathrow Airport.

The forecourt is the primary approach for departing passengers to the new Terminal, and for arriving passengers it is one of the first impressions after landing. An intricate system of routes between London Underground, Heathrow Express, multiple vehicular and bus drop-offs makes navigation complex. A clear and simple wayfinding strategy is therefore paramount for the client. The overarching concept proposed for the wayfinding strategy was to emphasise the sense of alighting, the drama of leaving the ground, all the while providing clear and legible directions to passengers and avoiding clutter.

Spaceagency, together with Weston Williamson, was commissioned in 2017 by Transport for Greater Manchester to design and implement a pedestrian wayfinding and signage scheme for the city of Manchester.

The vision for the Greater Manchester Connected Wayfinding project is to create an outstanding pedestrian urban environment in Manchester that puts pedestrians at the heart of the movement strategy for the city and wider region. The project aligns with the City Centre Transport Strategy 2040, which focuses on creating an integrated, well coordinated transport system which supports walking and cycling alongside easy modal interchange to the public transport system.

Spaceagency is appointed to design the system and the pilot scheme for a city centre roll out of pedestrian totem signs as part of the integrated pedestrian and transport information system for Transport for Greater Manchester, in collaboration with Manchester City Council. Design proposals have been reviewed extensively by key stakeholders, including TfGM’s disability design reference group, MCC Regeneration, MCC Public Realm, MCC Highways, The Medieval Quarter Group, etc. to ensure accessible product sizing, information hierarchy, legibility and Equalities Act compliant text sizing.

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE
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Client: Northacre / BL Development
Location: London, UK

Architect: Squire & Partners

Spaceagency Team: Sarah Manning, Laura Rigoni, Carlos Martin, Alex Syniukov, Joseph Armakolas, Junyi Bai

Spaceagency designed wayfinding, signage and environmental graphics for a new mixed-use development, a 1.72-acre triangular site in the heart of Westminster, London. The development comprises six residential buildings ranging from 13 to 19 storeys to include 268 apartments. The whole development also includes a new street, retail units and office space at the podium level, alongside residents’ facilities including a gym, 25m pool and spa - a hub of culture, creativity and enterprise.

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE
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Client: Supreme Committee

Location: Doha, Qatar

Year: 2016 - 2022

Spaceagency Team:

Sarah Manning,

Peter Feldmann,

Joseph Armoklas,

Nicola Lorusso,

Carlos Martin,

Aidan Brown

Size: 40,000 seats

Spaceagency was engaged as the signage and wayfinding consultant for a 40,000-seat World Cup stadium and the surrounding precinct which includes an Aquatic Centre, a multi-purpose hall, conference centre, health and wellness centre and parking.

Bringing the Experience of Flight to Central London
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DIGITAL EXPERIENCE, WAYFINDING,
BRAND EXPERIENCE
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Client Transport for London
Location London, UK
Year 2011-2012
Architect Aedas London

The London Cable Car spans both sides of the river Thames and links the London Docklands with North Greenwich peninsula, closing and a gap in the public transport network. Its 100m towers also act as a major landmark and tourist attraction, supporting the regeneration of the two areas. This new piece of infrastructure was designed to be a catalyst for the regeneration of the Greenwich Peninsula. Built in time for the 2012 London Olympics, the objective was to encourage movement from the Docklands into North Greenwich to revitalise the redeveloping area. This was a high profile public space project endorsed by Mayor Boris Johnson, and is one of the first Cable Cars implemented into the transport network of a major international metropolis.

Spaceagency was engaged as a consultant to Aedas to develop the wayfinding and signage strategy for the Cable Car and simultaneously on behalf of Emirates Airlines, the sponsor for the Cable Car, to coordinate their branding strategy within the stations. The project was on a very tight timeline and the design had to be completed from Concept through to implementation in under a year for the public realm, wayfinding, branding and digital media element of the project. The project included the public realm on both sides of the Cable Car set down – at North Greenwich and at Royal Victoria Docks. We worked collaboratively with the Delivery Architect, the Engineering team, the Docklands Light Railway, Transport for London, the Local Councils on both sides of the river, the corporate sponsor’s branding team, and contractor to successfully deliver a major infrastructural project in time for the Olympics. 

The wayfinding signage resides within the Transport for London family of signage and therefore expresses consistency with the overall brand. The concept for the sponsor's brand activation is to link the experience of riding the cable car to taking flight. Terminology such as 'Boarding' and 'Boarding Passes' emphasise the analogy. Branding campaigns are integrated into the sleek architectural design as seamless arrays of digital media where Emirate's flight crew can be seen waving farewell to passengers as they lift off.

Public realm signage and wayfinding creating a destination point within the City of London
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Identity, Wayfinding
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Client We Work
London, UK
Year 2019

Spaceagency had the privilege of developing the signage and wayfinding for the Devonshire Square WeWork, London, UK.

The signage and wayfinding at Devonshire Square provides a clear, consistent and accessible information for orientation, legibility and navigation, linking into the existing wayfinding information within the surrounding context.

The wayfinding elements within the site support connectivity to the area and promote sustainable transport modes. At the same time, the signage continues to support the recognition of the identity of the campus to raise awareness for this public amenity space within the City.

We are delighted to have completed the interior design for the latest incarnation of Yotel and first City Center location in London.

Located on Clerkenwell Road, it is in close walking distance to Farringdon Crossrail and TFL station, the hotel occupies the site of a formerly disused petrol station turned pop-up venue and comprises of 212 guestrooms, club lounge, cafe and bar at ground floor as well as gym, co-working and meeting rooms.

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Interior Design & FF&E: Spaceagency

Project Team: Sarah Manning, Peter Feldmann, Joseph Armakolas, Junyi Bai, Natalia Reglero

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Project Manager: Buro4 /

Architect: Fletcher Rae Architects / Structural Engineer & M&E: MLM /

Quantity Surveyor: QuantemClient: Jerram Falkus Construction (D&B contractor) / Medina Investments Ltd (Developer) / YOTEL (Operator)

Location: London, UK

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Completion: Year 2020

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics

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Client Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC)

Location Abu Dhabi, UAE

Year 2020

Architect KPF

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Client Google, Inc.
Location Mountain View, California
Year 2018
Architect  Sarah Wilmer / Sidell Pakravan

Based on the overall Biophilic vision for the campus, we developed environmental graphics based of natural feature and wildlife found in the immediate area, such as the Egrits, Redwoods, Deers and others.

Biophilic design emphasizes human adaptations to the natural world that over evolutionary time have proven instrumental in advancing people’s health, fitness and wellbeing. Biophilic design requires reinforcing and integrating design interventions that connect with the overall setting or space.

The optimal functioning of all organisms depends on immersion within habitats where the various elements comprise a complementary, reinforcing, and interconnected whole.

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE PLACEMAKING
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Client: HB Reavis
Location: Bratislava, Slovakia

Spaceagency Team: Sarah Manning, Peter Feldmann

Architect: Benoy/HB Reavis/ SIEBERT + TALAŠ

Spaceagency has been appointed the wayfinding and signage designer for a major regeneration project in central Bratislava, comprising a shopping centre, rooftop park and underground regional bus station. Stanica Nivy means Wetlands Bus Station

in Slovakian due to its proximity to one of the largest wetlands in central Europe.

The design concept takes inspiration from the natural trajectories that cause human, natural and animal migrations.

Rooting the Identity of a Desert Business Park in its Heritage as a Petrified Forest
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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Client Rooya Group
Location Cairo, Egypt
Year 2010
Architect Zaha Hadid Architects

In 2010 Spaceagency was appointed as the Wayfinding and Signage consultant to Zaha Hadid Architects for a large mixed-use masterplan in Cairo. The project comprises 18 office towers, 5 retail clusters, a 5-star hotel, exterior public space and 2 levels of basement parking. Spaceagency’s scope included all public areas.

Spaceagency’s philosophy is to provide intelligibility by revealing the latent spatial structure of a given space while seamlessly integrating graphic communication into the architecture. Rather than creating additive elements within a project, our primary design objective is to embed wayfinding indications into the architecture and landscape. The team’s expertise in environmental graphics supports this spatial perspective with graphic, narrative and informational layers, which facilitate orientation and curate the user experience.

The central spine of this masterplan functions as an oasis, full of vibrant activity and a night time economy. In order to achieve this ‘buzz’, a strong, direct and convenient central axis of movement had to be emphasized through wayfinding cues and signage. Environmental graphics and wayfinding directional markers from the basement up, facilitate orientation and picture-building for first time visitors and enhance the experience of getting where one wants to go.

Working with Aecom Abu Dhabi, Spaceagency has developed strategies and designs to improve the public realm, and in particular the Wayfinding and Signage, across 13 selected Riyadh neighbourhoods. The objective is to encourage walking, cycling, and public life.

Streets function as the place for interaction and communication, transportation, social and commercial activities for the general public, so reclaiming streets for all users, and shifting away from the dominance of cars, is an important objective of this initiative. Riyadh public realm, like in other cities, bas been dominated by private cars for decades and there is a need to reprioritize community development objectives for a more sustainable and liveable environment.

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Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 2020

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Wayfinding, Graphic Standards, Signage Product Design

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Client YOTEL

Location YOTELs worldwide

Year 2020

Conceptual study for wayfinding and passenger experience for a next-generation, mid-size cruise ship.

Our client is setting-out to revamp the leisure cruising and approached us to prototype a new way guests navigate and way-find through large cruise ships. From our research and discussions several pain-points emerged:

- On boarding: Large numbers of customers, mostly unfamiliar with the environs, boarding at the same time which can lead to congestion and frustration due to waiting time at key nodes

- Finding back one’s cabin, or even the correct deck: corridors are typically double loaded, very long and completely indoors, with no relationship to the outside. This can lead to difficulties finding back one’s cabin.

Spaceagency was appointed to design the wayfinding system for the entire ship up to schematic design and then work with the shipyard and naval architects to develop the scheme up to construction. We started with a thorough analysis of the ship’s circulation spaces to map out decision points, pain points and vertical communications. We ran several types of pedestrian movement forecasting tools to precisely identity potential bottlenecks. This information was then used to place signage in a way that would help dispersing crowds.

In parallel we started to develop an overall graphic concept and graphic language that draws inspiration from typical seafaring motifs, for example sea charts, navigation, cartography and others and transforms them into a shipwide wayfinding system.

Leading Scientists from Different Disciplines toward Chance Encounter and Knowledge-Sharing
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WAYFINDING, IDENTITY, ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHICS,
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Client KACST
Location Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Year 2011-present
Architect: Laboratory for Visionary Architecture

Spaceagency was engaged to develop analyse the movement  and develop a wayfinding strategy and graphic communication system for a Science and Technology professional campus in northwest Riyadh dedicated to scientists of all fields. The objective of the strategy is to promote knowledge-sharing and cross-pollination of ideas through the spatial layout of the campus and movement framework.

This is achieved through a route layout which encourages scientists of different sectors to cross paths both inside buildings and within public space.  Using wayshowing to influence route choice and perception, the strategy facilitates information-sharing in central gathering spaces. The design concept for graphic communication draws on influences from Arabic contributions to the advancement of science and mathematics – geometry in particular.

Going out of the box to wayfind through the meandering urban fabric of Clerkenwell to venues for this vibrant design festival
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Wayfinding and Signage
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Client Clerkenwell Design Week
Location London, UK
Year 2017

Spaceagency was approached to propose and implement the wayfinding for the 2017 Clerkenwell Design Week festival. The festival venues are distributed along a route, right in the heart of this design-thinking neighbourhood, often hidden from typical public approach from rail stations and transport links.

Spaceagency's task and approach was to use the concept of 'unfolding' this hidden route and venues 'out of the box' in which they are enclosed. Much like many of the design objects on show are once carefully wrapped and protected in parcels, it is important the spectacle on show in Clerkenwell is also taken out of the box from the unlikely venues, into the streets and surroundings creating a buzz in the city.

International launch of The Spaceagency Guide to Wayfinding

It can be purchased on Amazon following this link: http://bit.do/sagtw

The Spaceagency Guide to Wayfinding is a comprehensive illustrated guide answering two questions: What is wayfinding, and how to do it?It’s a visual guidebook detailing the process to design a wayfinding system.

Wayfinding design is part of the informational layer through which we navigate the world. The role of the wayfinding designer is to uncover the latent structure of a building or urban space and to make it visible and comprehensible. Wayfinding is a little-known field of design that crosses a number of disciplines, including urban design and planning, product design, graphic design, information design and behavioural psychology. Without any higher education programmes dedicated to the field, wayfinding is often poorly understood.

Six international Spaceagency case studies investigate and illustrate the practical application of wayfinding theory to real-world solutions and a step-by-step demonstration of the relevant effective design stages to develop and execute a wayfinding system. Projects are covering a wide range of environments with distinctive and particular / specific spatial and cultural requirements, from the Singapore Rail Corridor to World Expos in Dubai and Kazakhstan, the Eastland Retail Masterplan Melbourne and the Qatar Cultural and Sports Hub in Doha to Heathrow Terminal 2.

 The book is broken down in six chapters to guide through the structure and sequence of the wayfinding design process through a series of tasks. The chapters cover the unique Spaceagency vision and approach, and presents the metholodology and project stages for the development of a spatial and information strategy, the design concept and its applications, and a discussion of the use of next-generation technology.

The authors of The Spaceagency Guide to Wayfinding are Sarah Manning and Peter Feldmann, directors of Spaceagency. The guide is a result of their united international, multi-disciplinary experiences in comparative area studies, architecture and urbanism, the Space Syntax approach, 3D and new media and exhibition design, gained as practitioners, tutors and unit leaders, guest critics and lecturers at institutions such as the Architectural Association, University of California, Berkeley, and the Royal College of Art, and in international projects, design competitions and publications with a wide range of global clients and collaborators.

Spaceagency developed a unique branding, wayfinding and signage scheme that is based on the unique architectural and spatial characteristics.

Developed by Phase 3 Architects, Stone Street will be stretching 1.7km and be one of the longest commercial promenades in Egypt. Stone Street will include 12 discreet public spaces with a sense of civic-ness and activated pedestrian participation for future culture and communities. Stone Street consists of 12 office blocks, a flagship department store, two fine-dining blocks, a theatre, a complex of 16 cinemas, a 400-keys hotel and serviced apartment. An unobstructed pedestrian promenade stretches from one end to the other and offers a unique outdoor experience for the car-afflicted inhabitants of Cairo.

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Branding, Identity, Wayfinding & Signage

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Client Rooya Group

Cairo, Egypt, Year 2018

The Orbital Highway is a new ring road around metropolitan Doha, built to connect urbanised areas better and to put a boundary on sprawl. Spaceagency was engaged by OMA to participate in a project to develop an Artscape along the length of this nearly 100km corridor, in order to transform this new piece of infrastructure into a valuable national link. The Artscape is context-sensitive, relating the character of the route corridor to its wider setting in a way that emphasises the surrounding cultural and natural environment. The interpretive environmental graphics design interacts with the surrounding landscape, creating an animated dialogue with the natural and urban context, and providing an attractive public realm alongside this major infrastructural intervention. Wayfinding is designed to optimise the road users’ experience by providing an engaging sensory experience.

Although the drivers’ journey along the highway is of a linear nature, the experience varies at major junctions and points of attraction. Like a score of music, the experience is both rhythmic as an undertone but also is dynamic and rises and falls in activity along its length. A dynamic logo has been designed which is able to communicate the spatial function of the highway, as well as its repetitiveness and variations. The  ‘Orbital Logo’ acts as an interface for navigation which enables drivers to locate themselves quickly along the Orbital Highway and makes it an integrated element of their experience.

Spaceagency was selected in 2020 by the Imperial War Museum to create their wayfinding and identity signage for the historic Duxford Airfield site.

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Client: Imperial War Museum
United Kingdom, 2020

Weaving Together Patches of City with a Continuous Band of Information
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WAYFINDING, SIGNAGE, VISITOR EXPERIENCE
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Client Ashgal
Location Doha, Qatar
Year 2013-2014
Architect Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), Rotterdam

Spaceagency was appointed to develop the wayfinding and identity of a large new masterplan in Doha with OMA including ports & cultural facilities, an Olympic Athletes’ Village with rowing, marathon swimming, canoe/kayak slalom & sprint, sailing, rugby, indoor volleyball as well as beach volleyball, mountain bike & BMX. One of the 2022 FIFA World Cup stadia is located within the masterplan as well as an amusement park, extension of the walkable Corniche and numerous public spaces. 

The masterplan extends over 5 precincts and takes on a unique identity in each. The overarching wayfinding concept is a band of information that weaves through the 5 precincts and adapts to the context of each. 

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Location Doha, Qatar
Year 2018

The spatial design and layout of Pearl Qatar can be understood as a string on which the different precincts are lined up like pearls.

Each precinct has its own particular identity and architectural style. Each precinct is largely independent of the next and tethered together by a network for streets and roads that is predominantly designed for vehicular use.

As a result the visitor awareness of other precincts, and what they offer, is somewhat limited and precincts tend not to benefit from one another regarding footfall and attracting visitors.

Porto Arabia, Qanat Quarter and Medina Centrale act as anchors and attract additional footfall from outside the Pearl Qatar.

Spaceagency, was appointed in 2019 to develop the Wayfinding, Signage, and Streetscape as well as the overall visual Identity for the ‘Synergy Campus’ in Lingen Germany, following a successful competition entry with LAVA Berlin in 2018.

Identity, Wayfinding & Signage

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Client Luehnbau
Team: Peter Feldmann with Christina Morbi, Alex Syniukov.

UK, Year 2020

A young, fresh and vibrant graphic approach for a bold kinetic architectural design
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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Client Deutsches Jugendherbegergs Werk Bayern (DJH)
Location Bayreuth, Germany
Year 2017
Architect  Laboratory for Visionary Architecture (LAVA), Berlin

Client: Deutsches Jugendherbergswerk Werk Bayern (DJH)

Location: Bayreuth, Germany, 2017

Architect: Laboratory for Visionary Architecture (LAVA), Berlin, Germany

The Bayreuth Youth hostel represents a new generation of youth hostels - international, innovative and integrative. Offering a total of 180 beds it is targeted primarily at Gen Y travellers who want funky design, access to online and community, unique experiences, not just a clean bed and shower. There is a strong forcus on sport, communities and physical activities.

Spaceagency was appointed to design the Wayfinding and Environment Graphics for a new build youth hostel building in Bayreuth, Germany. It is Spaceagency's first project in Germany and was completed in the summer of 2017, replacing the existing hostel dating back to the 1960’s.

We took inspiration from the dynamic and energetic architectural design, as well as its primary target market – young travels exploring Europe on a budget. The result in an integrated graphic language that relates to the young guest profile and active and energetic nature of the youth hostel.

The core of graphic language is based on the radial, Y-shape layout of the building, centered around a communal space that connects the different levels and created an attractive central meeting space as well as circulation to all key function. Horizontal and diagonal sightlines support intuitive wayfinding and direct guests to different building functions.

Based on this layout we developed a set of dynamically diverging lines that direct guests to the different functions of the building. The second key graphic element was the ‘ship shape’, a horizontal rectangular shape with filleted corner and right angles. Together, these are used to create a series of different graphic application:

• Floor Graphics

• Iconography

• Super graphics on access doors to various public function

• Wall Graphics in the Cafeteria

• Directional Wall Graphics

• Narrative infographics highlighting the connectivity between different European destinations

• Overall isometric overview diagrams

• Typography and colour scheme

• Housenumber and external address

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Client Emaar
Location Dubai, U.A.E.
Year 2018

Dubai Creek Harbour is at the heart of a bold new vision for Dubai. A fusion of creativity and innovation, home to the iconic Dubai Creek Tower, it is set to enrich this great city. Dubai Creek Harbour is located adjacent to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and is accessed from the Ras Al Khor road. The site is approximately 12 minutes drive from Downtown Dubai, and it offers magnificent views of the Dubai Skyline across the creek and of the Burj Khalifa.

The project is being planned as an integrated mixed use community that has been designed to bespoke international standards, providing a distinct variety of high-end destinations and lifestyle amenities that cater to the needs of its residents and visitors alike. The unique location of the site at the crux of the Dubai Creek coupled with the significant natural features located adjacent to the site provide the opportunity to create a development that is not only unique to Dubai, but recognized worldwide.

Central to the master plan concept is the idea of green lungs linking the development together through a network of open spaces and parks. The master plan districts were de­signed around significant open spaces and/ or waterfront spaces as the driver from space and place-making. At the core of the project is a large central open space that will include a signifi­cant architectural feature. This “Central Core” is the seed from which the rest of the master plan evolved and grew. Linking to the Central Core are a series of axes or “green fingers” which establish the framework for design and layout of the plan. Major pedestrian friendly con­nections link the districts together, like to the waterfront and island and maintain views to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai skyline.

Dubai Creek Harbour will be a walkable, accessible, sustainable and successful city of the future. Respecting the culture and climate of Dubai, it will be a place where people can live, work and play in harmony with nature. The proximity of the site to both the city and to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary imbues the site with eco­logical value as well as opportunity to create a sustainable community, filled with opportunity and activity.

Following the Minthis Hills project, Spaceagency was asked back by the same Developer, Pafilia, to develop the Wayfinding and Signage for their new flagship development in Limassol, Cyprus.

The project is an iconic, 34 storey residential tower designed by Atkins and WPP. We started by analyzing the unique characteristics or Cyprus and the particular geometric and typological properties of the tower to synthesise a unique formal and graphic language that is full of character and inherently relates to the building itself as well as to its location. By bringing the characteristics of the architectural form to a human scale, we were able to create a meaningful design that enhances the architecture and contributes to a holistic visitor experience.

Client: Expo 2020 / Aecom, 2017

Spaceagency was commissioned by Aecom to design a concept for street furniture for the public realm at the 2020 Dubai Expo.

Our concept is based on a modular kit of parts that can be assembled and disassembled easily and quickly in a number of different configurations. This allows for the flexibility required by the Expo 2020 client.

The backbone of the formal language is derived from the overarching 3-pronged concept of the expo with Al-Wazl as the centre piece and connector. Each of the creative districts, Mobility, Sustainability, and Opportunity then informs the final articulation, materiality and formal language adopted in the respective district.

Location: Astana, Kazakhstan
Client: IT Engineering / The National Company
Design Partner: KCA International

Spaceagency has been appointed as the wayfinding and signage designer for Expo 2017 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The project includes wayfinding strategy and design proposals for the Expo period as well as its transformation in the post-Expo legacy mode. The site includes a Museum of Future Energy, Thematic Pavilions, National and Corporate Paviliions, a hotel, congress hall, art centre, public space, offices, residential, bus station, coach station, taxi stands, police station and surface and underground parking. The theme of the Expo is Future Energy, and sub-themes are based on the 4 elements: air, fire, water and earth. Drawing on these themes, the design uses ancient alchemic symbols to signify the different zones of the masterplan with sacred geometric forms.

Space Agency was also employed to forecast circulation patterns within the central Sphere Museum of Future Energy using Space Syntax. Spatial analysis software such as Space Syntax can be used to show how the behaviour of visitors to the Expo is determined by geometry and layout of space. The analysis and findings can be used to determine and influence spatial organisation and layouts.We have carried out two types of spatial analysis, visual integration and agent analysis for route choice. These studies assisted the client to understand the hierarchy of routes and best areas to place signage.

The scale of the Pan American Highway ensures that it passes through a checklist of urban and rural conditions along its route; and while there are a number of dense megacities that are along its path, the highway passes through thousands of miles of low and no-density areas, hinterlands, illicit urbanism, and devastated and pristine ecologies that can function as no-man’s land or be a loose aggregation of informal settlements and economies. Official resources such as people, money, goods, and information travel along these paths, but a network of unofficial resources exist here as well. Can these existing relationships be the beginning of a way of densifying both urban and ecological conditions and erasing the neither/nor areas? 

The longest city: the definition of “city” is vague enough to allow for a fantasy of the Pan American Highway as one continuous linear city linked by an almost continuous transit corridor. Here we fold the Americas over one another, with the hinge point at Panama, and identify a set of mile markers, or stations that overlap each other. What occurs at these mile markers is linked, tenuously or strongly, to its sister mile marker in the other hemisphere. 

Bridging Connections across a Historic Corridor the Length of a Country
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STRATEGIC DESIGN, WAYFINDING,
IDENTITY, ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHICS
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Client Urban Redevelopment Authority
Location Singapore
Year 2015
Architect Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA)

The Singapore Rail Corridor is a historic route that bisects the country of Singapore. Once owned by Malaysia and returned to Singapore in 2011, the disused corridor at 24 kilometres in length, represents a walking journey at the scale of a country. Although it could be traversed in one go, it is more likely that people will visit on foot for partial journeys, dipping in and out of the corridor at distinct points from specific neighbourhoods along its length. The corridor passes through many regions of the country, from the dense metropolis at the south, through residential suburban plots to the jungle hinterland in the north.

The strategy encompasses all possible journeys to and from the corridor as well as navigation within the corridor itself. Our vision for the Green Corridor is to improve connectivity between the Corridor and the city, make the Corridor accessible, safe and comfortable for a wide segment of the population and raise awareness of its rich natural and historic heritage.

Access Points are conceived of as ‘Doors’ that call attention to the threshold between the urban and natural condition. The Doors are an interface between two worlds and accentuate the act of transitioning between the two. The Doors also serve as a communication device, the last interface with the urban environment, after which one passes into a natural environment. 

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Design Partners: Laboratory for Visionary Architecture

Spaceagency designed the Wayfinding and Graphic communication system for a Research and Science campus in northwestern Riyadh dedicated to scientists of all fields. The objective of the urban strategy is to promote knowledge-sharing and cross-pollination of ideas through the spatial layout of the campus and movement framework. 

This is achieved through a route layout which encourages scientists of different sectors to cross paths both inside buildings and within public space. The Masterplan is conceived following the idea of a ‘Motherboard’ where the different components can plug in and out. The public space ties the different buildings together.

Location: Western Qatar
Client: Olympic Comittee, Qatar
Design Partners: Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA)

The Endurance Community Village at Al-Hamla is a training ground, competition ground and resort dedicated to Endurance horse riding. One of the growing sports within the region, the village serves as a catalyst for development in Western Qatar near Dukhan. There is little development in this area at the moment, but this masterplan is intended to attract visitors and build the profile of this area.

The concept  for the site revolves around the competition field of play, in which the operations take place in a circular arena. This emblem of circles has been used to create communities around each use: competion, training, accommodation and staff quarters.

Client: Victoria and Albert Trust
London, 2018

Recognizing the challenges visitors face navigating the sprawling galleries of its premises, Spaceagency was commissioned on 2018 by the Victoria and Albert Trust to develop a concept for a new wayfinding and signage strategy for the Museum's London base.Our concept was developed after a thorough analysis of the current wayfinding scheme, observed visitor behaviour as well as the client's requirements for flexibility. Formally, our approach is based on the concept of 'framing' - a concept that underpins the articulation of the different galleries, door, and archways in the museum's interior.

Location: Beijing, China
Design Partners: Foster and Partners
Client: Sino Ocean Land, Hong Kong

Spaceagency has been commissioned to develop the wayfinding and identity of the new International Financial Centre in Beijing. Located on the eastern side of the 3rd Ring Road, Ocean Tower is part of a larger, dense high-rise cluster that is currently awaiting development. The 460m tall building is comprised of retail, office and hotel functions and designed by Foster and Partners. 

Our work on this project can be described in 3 parts:
•    Internal wayfinding and graphic communication
•    Branding and Identity
•    External sky- and podium signage

Internal wayfinding and graphic communication system is based on 2 cornerstones:
•    The notion of 'flow', routed deeply in Chinese culture as a sign of fortune, prosperity and good luck. 
•    The notion of connecting the ground and the sky - inherent in the typology of a skyscraper.

Based on these cornerstones we developed a graphic language that takes inspiration from the phase-change of water as it rises from the ground to the sky - from ice, to water to mist and clouds. A series of patterns based on the nuclear phases and the transition between them has been designed to create the graphic applications.

The brand logo was conceived as an abstraction of the smooth and elegant sinuous architectural forms that characterise the façade and overall shape of the building.

The Sky-signage was conceived to integrate with the particular façade geometry and not be a bolt on solution. The proposed solution picks up on the façade geometry with a series of diagonal LED strips, all addressable, that follow the same angle and the adjacent façade elements. This enabled us place the signage in behind the outer façade layer, protected from the elements and leaving the outer skin undisturbed. 

To determine the best position for the sky-signage and to deliver the best value for the client, we developed a computational tool to evaluate the visibility from the surrounding streetscape, taking into account the various obstacles in the vicinity.

Client: Supreme Delivery Committee, Qatar
Design Partner: Pattern Design

http://www.pattern-architects.com/project/al-rayyan-stadium/?gallery

The Al-Rayyan Stadium and Precinct in Doha, Qatar, are a key part of the 2022 FIFA World-Cup hosted in Qatar. Spaceagency has designed the concept and schematic design for the Wayfinding and Signage for this venue. We had to take into account 3 operational modes: Base Build, Tournament and Legacy as well as different transport provisions.

The formal design was inspired by the the elasticity and dynamism inherent in the Masterplan design and in sport itself.

Compliance with FIFA standards and codes required fan segregation and strict naming for seating zones, gates and concourses.

Furthermore, In a competition venue large crowds must move through this environment safely and effectively at peak times of arrival and departure. Here movement flows must be carefully managed - not only to deliver visitors to their destination in a timely manner, but also to avoid potential conflicts that can arise when overcrowding occurs. In these types of high volume movement flow environments, signage and wayfinding must work harder to keep the crowd moving toward their destination.

Whatever else the signage system succeeds in being, it must be clear.If the signs do not communicate the relevant information quickly and easily to everyone who needs it, they will have failed.

In practice this means that signage must be read over the heads of the crowd, from a greater distance. This distance allows people to ‘pre-sort’, to make their decision about which way to turn before they reach their ‘decision point’ where they must turn one way or another. If they wait until the junction to decide which way to go, this will lead to bottlenecks. This is why, in large visitor events, like in transport stations, signage is placed up high and sized to be larger than it would be in an environment that is not time-sensitive and does not have large crowds converging on small spaces at the same time. For this reason text on the signage needs to be sized to safely and effectively direct crowds at greater distances than a couple of metres away. 

Location: Robina, Australia
Client: Queensland Inventment Fund (QIC) / 7th Wave

Spaceagency was engaged to redesign the signage and Wayfinding for the Robina Town Centre, a large shopping centre in the town of Robina, located inland from the Gold Coast in Australia's Queensland State.

The project included upgrading the existing shopping areas as well as the next stage of redevelopment comprising of new shopping malls and a fresh food and dining precinct.

Conceived originally in the 1980's by Singaporean developer Robin Loh and Arthur Earle together with Architect and Urban Planner Moshe Safdie, a Metabolist, Robina is one of the first masterplanned towns in Australia.

Spaceagency developed a coherent vision that drew inspiration an from the on particular location, it’s sunny climate and outdoorsy character.

HSBC University

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE
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Client: General Autority of Civil Aviation
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Year: 2022

Spaceagency Team: Sarah Manning, Peter Feldmann, Pierre Blandeau, Aidan Brown, Nicola Lorusso

The Pavilion is based on the concept of flightpaths, connecting different governmental authories and airports that are related to aviation. This is reminiscent of flight paths connecting different contitents and destinations.

The Pavilion is composed of of 5 dedicted exhibition areas, one for each participant, a digital feature wall for general exhibition content, a meeting room, a coffee bar and a VIP area on the mezzanine level.

The graphic design concept matches the overall design language and is applied through a series of static graphics and LED screens which bring the pavilion to life.

Spaceagency was commissioned by Germany based Huxel Tech to conceive a mobile showroom typology, that would be deployed globally.

We develop a modular system that was based on a standard shipping container and would be mounted on 2 standard flat-bed trailers that would be simply parked next to each other, each carrying 2 modules.

We took inspiration from the Farnworth House, a modernist masterpiece designed by Mies van der Rohe in the 1950’s, with regards to it’s purity, flowing, open space and minimalism.  The initial application was for a mobile wine-tasting showroom for French / Californian Winery Jean Charles Boisset, with the ambition to bring a piece of Nappa, a Californian wine growing region into the city.

Applying Infinite Geometries to Inspire Global Ideas at the Expo National Pavilion
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WAYFINDING, ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHICS,
VISITOR EXPERIENCE
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Client Expo 2020
Location Dubai, UAE
Year 2015
Architect OMA

Spaceagency was invited by OMA to join their design team as one of the finalist teams for the United Arab Emirates' host country pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, to develop wayfinding and experiential graphics for the pavilion. The solutions developed for the project encompass a variety of aims. The journey toward the pavilion is focused around finding the pavilion. The approach and arrival is concerned with identifying the pavilion and enhancing its image and identity. The journey through the pavilion is dedicated to providing educational and informative information about the host country.

Based on an analysis of the formal language employed by OMA on the architectural design we worked together to integrate qualities such as form, scale, colour, typography and iconography into the architecture, in a manner which enhances the visual language established through the design. This informational layer is both integral to the design and a communicative elaboration on the concepts behind the architectural design.

The idea of infinite geometry lies behind the design concept for the UAE Pavilion proposal. Inspired by the Arabesques and geometric patterns so prevalent in Islamic art, a fractal geometry has been introduced to represent the infinite patterns that extend beyond the visible material world to encompass universal concepts and principles. This approach of recalling infinite geometry is not only inspired by the architectural heritage of the region, but also is inspired by the principles behind the Expo - to connect individuals to global ideas and global concerns. The idea that the same relationships take place at the macro/universal-scale, and at the world-scale and at the micro-scale is well linked to both the scalar nature of fractal geometry and the mission of the Expo, in bringing the whole world together in a microcosm.

Client Pafila
Location Cyprus
Year 2016-17
Architect Woods Bagot

Spaceagency was appointed by one of Cyprus’s primier real estate developers, Pafilia, to develop the Wayfinding and Signage for their Minthis Hills Golf Club and Resort.

The project includes a full golf course and club house, a commercial village centre and spa, as well as several villa clusters.

Connecting the Community of Businesses at Greenworks
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WAYFINDING, ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHICS,
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Client Greenworks Global
Location London, UK
Year 2015

The Greenworks building accommodates a number of creative companies in an industrial building in the historic heart of London. Originally designed for a single user, the utilitarian design of the building failed to provide sufficient wayfinding and identity for the different addresses within the building, leading to visitor confusion. A very simple scheme was conceived that represents each company’s brand colour as a stop in a continuous spectrum of creativity which runs upward through the core of the building.  The spectrum is applied on a ribbon form which morphs into the next company's brand colour each time it folds around the stairwell. Playful pictograms and company signage helps to highlight the creative nature of the building tenants.

Loacation Hangzhou, China
Design Partner Laboratory for Visionary Architecture, Berlin

Spaceagency joined Berlin Based Laboratory for Visionary Architecture in the Competition for a mixed use office, hotel and retail development in Hangzhou, Eastern China. 

Spaceagency developed the overall Naming, 'Hangzhou Unlimited', and Branding Strategy for the development. The visual language developed takes inspiration for the number eight shaped design and reinterprets it as a graphic application that can be used as a logo for Identity, Branding and Marketing purposes.

The City of London’s Culture Mile North-South route lies at the heart of historic London, playing host to some of the world’s most renowned cultural institutions - a palimpsest layered over the course of centuries with architectural icons and historical narratives, each speaking of their own time, together creating a temporal passage throught the great city of London.

Spaceagency was commission by the City of London Corporation to conceptualize a ‘pop-up’ wayfinding installation to improve the connection of the East-West Running Culture mile to main tourist attractions to the south, including the Tate Modern, Millenium Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral, linking through one of the most historical and densely populated parts of central London.

At present, The North/South route of the Culture Mile contains some of the most visited and desirable arts and culture institutions in the UK.

However, the link between these does not read as a continuous path and connected experience but instead a series of moments in the public realm, constructed in different eras and speaking to different audiences. There is the forecourt of the Tate Modern, a mecca for modern art, abuzz with players and tourists; the crossing of the Millennium Bridge with its expansive views across the great river Thames, symbolizing the idealism at the turn of the new Millennium. From here, St. Peter’s Hill leads toward Sir Christopher Wren’s awe-inspiring historic dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral, where worshippers mix with weekend wanderers catching a performance of the church choir’s Evensong. Past this point, the visibility of the area’s destinations drops off, and only some visitors make it into the regenerated Paternoster Square and the high street retail at the St. Paul’s underground station.

North of this, a lack of visual cues deters even Londoners from continuing the journey north, along the drab St. Martin’s Le Grand past the faded glory of Greyfriar’s Church Garden to the Museum of London rotunda. Even many longtime London residents are unaware of the rare artefacts and rich history on display at the Museum of London.

The London Symphony Orchestra will bring new sounds to the area. Northward the route becomes even more brutalist, speaking to the aftermath of the Second World War and the London of the 1960’s and 70’s. The Barbican stands as a world-class art and music attraction playing host to the Guildhall School of Music and the aspirations of young musical talent.

Location Toowoomba, Australia
Client Seventh Wave / Queensland Investment Fund

Spaceagency was enganged to redesign the signage and Wayfinding for the Grand Central shopping centre in Toowoomba, Australia. This includes the next stage of redevelopment and upgrading of the 80,000m2 centre.

Spaceagency developed a coherent vision that builds on Toowoomba’s rich heritage in farming and agriculture with the region also know as Australia’s Food Bowl. How this heritage and ‘earthyness’ would translate into the 21th century informed Spaceagency’s bespoke and minimalist design using weathered corten steel and local bluestone paired with monochromatic graphics.

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Client The Oaks Prague
Location Prague, Czech Republic

Situated outside of Prague, near Průhonice in the central village of Nebřenice, which offers the best of both worlds – countryside living that is close to the city.

It’s a 30-minute drive to the centre of Prague, and the city’s ring road makes it even quicker to get to Václav Havel Airport. Living at Oaks was designed for modern family life and individuals of the 21st century, with respect for nature and its surroundings.

The wayfinding of this project was based conceptually in the framing movement, the same way an artist frames their art, we intend to frame the landscape within the wayfinding. Using natural resources mixed with industrial materials, we appealed to the duality of countryside and city. Spaceagency delivered a high-end sustainable design that embraces the character of the project.

Defining a Dynamic New Concept for Student Residence Halls
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INTERIORS, VISITOR EXPERIENCE
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Client Round Hill Asset Management
Location London, UK
Year 2013

Nido is a student living network in central London, mixing students from different universities in a social hub accommodated within a high-rise tower. As a living environment that seeks to create a social community the original tower design was under-performing. The owner of the tower approached Spaceagency and two other design firms to develop an interior design concept that would achieve their aim of a highly social atmosphere. After careful analysis of the existing spaces, Spaceagency found that they suffer from 2 main types of design issues that are detrimental to their functioning as a venue for informal gathering, socializing and relaxing. The first was problem was one of spatial configuration and the second one of materiality. The existing common spaces were highly compartmentalized, with no visibility from circulation routes, promoting little movement to and through them. The materials used in the original interior design were slick and cold, more suitable for a corporate headquarters than a student hangout.

Spaceagency’s design solution facilitates customization and engagement with the surroundings. On the ground floor lobby, a simple yet effective system of extruded volumes is used to define and articulate specific spaces. Linear elements create continuity between the different zones, pulling people through the spaces. This continuous element is the reposi­tory for information and exchange, a highly efficient place to leave notes, to mingle and to meet, becoming the real world equivalent to the ‘Facebook wall’. Proposed materials are generally warm and soft, using a palette of plywood, cork and sisal.

On upper levels, the communal TV lounges, previously compartmentalised, have been opened and become part of the corridor. This mutually benefits the corridor, as it helps to visually break up its length. At the same time, the lounge areas which, now open and visible, benefit from passersby and chance encounters and communication. As an integral part of the spatial layout they now have the potential to become the ‘living room’ and social centre for each floor. Non-descript ceiling tiles are replaced by a simple undulating grid of plywood ribs with integrated lighting that provide rhythm and character. Proposed furniture is part of a simple modular system that maximises economies of scale. Sofas, armchairs, stools and work surfaces can all be pulled out of, or pushed back into compact multi-functional wall shelving units, allowing the space to be cleared for gatherings of different sorts. The bedrooms are configured with an emphasis on flexibility and opportunities for customisation. The selected materials show a ‘hands-on approach’ - they want to be touched and appropriated, and - rather than slick, hands-off polished materials – they are warm and friendly. 

Spaceagency’s approach to wayfinding for the Presidential Hotel is grounded in a recognition of urban space as not only as a series of architectural objects, but also as an interlinked network of routes and spaces between. Using the Space Syntax method of spatial analysis, we will gain a thorough understanding of the
project as a spatial system and a framework for movement. This reveals the underlying dynamics of how people are influenced by the structure of space and informs decisions where to place and how to structure directional signage. Viewing signage as an integral point of communication between people and their environments, our objective is to extend the overall architectural design concept into the graphic communication and to unify the graphic interface with the fabric of the architecture and landscape. Based on an analysis of the formal language employed on the project we work with the architect to integrate qualities such as layout, scale, colour, typography and iconography into the architecture, in a manner which enhances the visual language already in place.

Improving Walkability by Breaking Down Distances
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WAYFINDING, STRATEGIC DESIGN, ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHICS
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Client Roads and Transport Authority
Location Dubai, UAE
Year 2014
Architect OMA

The regeneration of Al Wasl Road and Jumeirah Road calls into question the current scale of movement in Dubai. Different modes of transport determine different experiences of space: the pedestrian experience through walking, the cyclist’s experience through cycling and the driving experience by car. Dubai is built around the scale of driving. The Dubai urban morphology is comprised of large blocks. Facilities and services are located at unwalkable distances from each other, cycle pathways are often segregated or unsafe. To regenerate Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah Road and 2nd December Street it is necessary to improve users’ experience of urban space.

Spaceagency was invited by OMA to join their design team for an invited competition for RTA. The strategy focuses on breaking down the current scale of movement in Dubai to render it more human-scale, and more engaging and comfortable for walking and cycling. By simply describing space through walking distances and cycling distances, users of these modes of transport are encouraged to carry on to accessible destinations and to choose these modes where previously they may not have ventured, expecting distances to be too great. This project creates an integrated experience through a wayfinding, identity and environmental graphics strategy which both helps people to find their way and animates the streetscape.

WAYFINDING & SIGNAGE PLACEMAKING
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Client: Government of Dubai
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Spaceagency Team: Sarah Manning, Peter Feldmann, Maria Araya, Yasmina Yehia, Paria Shoaei, Evgenia Vrentzou

Architect: Aecom

Spaceagency was invited to join Aecom’s team to develop placemaking, wayfinding and public art strategies for the Al Quoz Creative Zone in Dubai. Building upon the renowned success of the independent Al Serkal arts district in the Al Safa area of Dubai, the team was commissioned to expand the burgeoning art scene into the surrounding neighbourhood, integrating the productive light manufacturing industrial uses in the area together with opportunities for artists, makers and active entertainment uses.

Spaceagency was appointed to develop a new concept, branding and graphic communication format for a well known retailer in Moscow.
The pilot project included a food a dining precinct within  a new shopping centre in Moscow. 

Securing the future of Education in Abu Dhabi
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SPATIAL CONCEPT
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Client Abu Dhabi Education Authority
Location Abu Dhabi
Year 2011-2012
Architect Aedas London

Integration

Spatial, functional and structural integration into one coherent design

Erosion

All primary ‘geometries’ are generated by an underlying erosion principle - by subtracting volumes from and initial volume.
We developed a computational tool that calculated  optimal deficiencies , based on the client brief, of different parts of the programme and used  this to define spatial subtractions from the initial volume.

This logic of subtraction created a volumetric jigsaw that helped to generated an intriguing spatial sequence. In the facade, this erosion principle is articulated at extruded and recessed blocks.

These are positioned to maximise shading for the windows and reduce solar ingress.

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Client IT Engineering
Location Astana, Kazakhstan
Year 2016
Architect KCA International

Spaceagency was appointed to design the internal wayfinding and graphic communication system for the Astana Expo Hotel, to be opened in 2017.

The design is derived from the over arching design language for the wider Astana Expo wayfinding. For the luxurious and tranquil ambience of the hotel, this language is adopted to work with a metallic material palette.

Spaceagency was commissioned by Germany based Huxel Tech to conceive a mobile showroom typology, that would be deployed globally.

We develop a modular system that was based on a standard shipping container and would be mounted on 2 standard flat-bed trailers that would be simply parked next to each other, each carrying 2 modules.

We took inspiration from the Farnworth House, a modernist masterpiece designed by Mies van der Rohe in the 1950’s, with regards to it’s purity, flowing, open space and minimalism.  The initial application was for a mobile wine-tasting showroom for French / Californian Winery Jean Charles Boisset, with the ambition to bring a piece of Nappa, a Californian wine growing region into the city.

Cattle Branding a Steakhouse along the Old Drovers' Trail
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BRAND EXPERIENCE, IDENTITY
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Client Hasip Mertsoy
Location London, UK
Year 2012-2013
Architect Xul

Spaceagency was engaged by a chef opening his first restaurant to develop the name, brand positioning and identity of his restaurant. Having worked at Michelin starred restaurants, his concept was to open a neighbourhood steakhouse in a simple and unpretentious environment. After conducting extensive research into the market and community surrounding the restaurant site on 'Green Lanes', one of the most interesting findings was that for hundreds of years, this route was used as a thoroughfare for drovers moving cattle from the farms of Hertfordshire to the Smithfield Market in central London for slaughter and sale. This was described in a memorable tale by Charles Dickens, which imbued the site with a sense of historical continuity and authenticity. 

Focusing on cattle-driving and ownership, a design concept was settled upon that is derived from the history of cattle-branding. Cattle brands were used to distinguish one owners herd from another and were developed as a language, where letters and numbers replaced the owner's initials. When letters or numbers are turned diagonally, they are called 'tumbling', flipped backwards they are called 'crazy', when accompanied by a hemisphere they are 'rocking' and when lying on their side, they are called 'lazy'. A 'lazy eight' is also an infinity sign and it was felt this would be a portentous name for the young chef's endeavour. A logomark bears the emblem of the Lazy Eight; a modern re-interpretation of cattle brands were designed for the restaurant using a western slab-serif typeface. This enigmatic code language infuses the restaurant with character and intrigue. The typographic language reaches beyond the boundaries of a logo and of various graphic elements, and becomes the concept itself, the interior’s distinguishable cornerstone. Materiality of rusted branding irons as coat hooks, branded timber menus and tables, Cor-ten signage and rustic twine and brown craft paper infuse the restaurant's ambiance with the down-to-earth, warm ambiance the client was seeking.

Location: Barcelona
Project Partners: HOK

In collaboration with HOK, we won this design competion.

Find out more about the project: HOK Reveals Design Details for FC Barcelona’s New Palau Blaugrana Arena

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Client Reed Exhibitions
Location Hamburg, Germany
Year 2018

Spaceagency was appointed by Reed exhibitions to design the wayfinding and signage for the Hamburg based ‘Aircraft Interiors Expo’, the world’s leading event for the design of aircraft interiors, to help with ongoing issue of customer circulation.

Location: Robina, Australia
Client: Queensland Investment Fund (QIC)

Spaceagency designed the graphic communication for ‘The Kitchens’, a distinct food and dining precinct within the Robina Town Centre .

The design is distinctly different from the design for the other shopping areas and designed to create a particular sense of place related to cooking, dining and events. 

Simplifying a Cluttered Information Environment to Improve Usability
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WAYFINDING, SIGNAGE
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Client Network Rail
Location London, UK
Year 2011-2013
Architect Aedas London

Space Agency was appointed to develop the wayfinding and signage scheme for the refurbishment of Euston Station in central London. A key issue impairing the usability of Euston Station from a passenger’s perspective is visual clutter. Standing on the concourse, commuters are bombarded with signs and messages from all angles with no easily discernible hierarchy or consistency. Behind the clutter, Euston Station exists as a far more elegant and structured example of international modernist design than it appears today.

The proposed wayfinding solution organises information into fluid visual bands. Easily distinguishable levels for wayfinding signage and media elements increase the usability of the station and improve the experience for passengers. Moreover, through consistent signage and by creating a strong visual identity, Euston Station achieves its potential to regain its status as a central London landmark station.

Location: Riyhad, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Client: 
Design Partner: Aedas / Mott Mc Donald

Station Design with Iconic Wave Canopy

A principal element within the design proposal is the waved roof canopy. This wave is rationalised within the stations into formal language of 45 degree angles.

Wave Inspired
Graphic Language

Within the wayfinding and graphic communication, the form of a wave has inspired the graphic system. This wave has been rationalised and has been conceived as a modular system of dynamic, curving tabs and facets, each component performing a specific function. Using a 45 degree angle, tabs can be assembled in sequences to different effect indicating different directional information. Smaller tabs can hold arrows and icons and longer tabs can hold text-based information.

Bi-Lingual Signage

The signage system is designed as a bi-lingual interface. Arabic is the primary language with the English presence subordinate. Both stacked and side-by-side placement is employed. Typically text is right justified to facilitate right to left reading.

The band over the platform glazed screens is used to confirm that the passenger is on the correct platform for the line toward his destination. Additionally, the passenger will want to know what other destinations the train will stop at along the way, so that he can be prepared for his stop. An LED panel information display updating passengers on the timings of the arriving trains and the final destination of each train keeps passengers informed. Finally, the frieze panel on platform screens confirms the station. If a passenger steps off a train by accident, this is a point at which the passenger will want to verify which stop he is currently at.

Connecting the Airport to the Region
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SPATIAL CONCEPT
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Client Abu Dhabi Airport Authority
Location Abu Dhabi
Year 2011-2012
Architect Aedas London

The proposed design for the new Abu Dhabi Intermodal Transit Centre was conceived from its function as a transport interchange between the new midfield terminal, various rail links and connection to the future airport city and cargo development.

The transit centre’s inherent dynamic is one of transition - a funnel between two poles. The design proposal celebrates this function as a funnel and turns it into its primary spatial expression, fusing the transfer hall and the passage to the new midfield terminal into one spatial continuum. The notion of compression and expansion is used to differentiate zones and to create spatial drama. It constitutes the overarching principle that unifies the design, sponsors its identity. The resulting spatial configuration is one of “no excess” - a streamlined and purist sculptural manifestation of its purpose.

The primary design objective for this proposal was to create a superior passenger experience, a hassle free environment that enables intuitive wayfinding and a smooth journey that is supported by an equally efficient, simple and logical terminal operation.

Spaceagency was commissioned by Mandana Oskoui Jewellery design to develop a new logo and graphic identity for the up-and-coming jewelry designer.

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Wayfinding, Environmental Graphics
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Location Changi, Singapore
Year 2017

With this project Spaceagency attempts to capture the key topics that revolve around Singapore and its airport and maps out the relationships between them. This helps us to immerse ourselves in the specific cultural context of a particular project and develop a design strategy that is routed in the local context. Distilling this further, some key themes came forward in our approach to the design of the signage for Changi Airport and different strategies have been mocked up to test how the identity of the different terminals can be conveyed.

Three conceptual strands have been pursued while developing the wayfinding approach.

The Travel 80% of Changi Passengers are in transit what give to the airport the critical importance of a place to refresh and vitalise through the journey, an oasis. We approached as a symbol of rest and refreshment the element of water, which In Chinese Taoism philosophy the element of water stands for contemplation, calmness, (re-)consideration, observation and reflection. Spaceagency design expresses a transition from Nature to Architecture embodying the Oasis as a vital part of the concept, through the design and materiality.

The Symbols of Singapore is another conceptual strand. The national symbols reflect a diverse and dynamic country that it is proud of its past and looking toward to a successful future. These symbols are applied to the design as a pattern, remembering the decorative arts from Singapore culture.

Client Media City
Location Doha, Qatar
Year 
Architect 

The wayfinding journey starts before visitors leave home. The journey starts with the information about the destination that precedes the journey, through its online and media presence, and image of the building in the wider context.

At close proximity, the building itself, rising from its surroundings, creates a new landmark in Doha and serves as a beacon for approaching visitors.

As a centre for communication, how the building transmits its internal activity into the surrounding context is essential. Is its communicative style opaque, translucent, transparent? The unique screening solution that has been introduced in the architectural design employing coloured apertures, suggests that the face of the building will be changeable, dynamic.

As the interface between the internal communication activity and the public realm, the building may show more or less of itself at different times, and may project itself into the city for specific events. While most internal events at Media HQ will be transmitted to the city and country digitally, there is opportunity within the architectural concept for the building to physically broadcast its internal workings through this coloured screen.