Distinctive features 

make memorable spaces

Make it Easy to recognise by name

One of the most useful methods of improving wayfinding is to create visually distinctive landmarks along a complicated journey. In an unfamiliar environment the mind will recognise elements that are different from their surrounding environment. 

Examples might include:

• A piece of large art - ‘Go past the large red guitar’, or ‘Go to the big green beanstalk’

• A coloured feature - ‘Turn left at the purple wall’, or ‘Go through the red door’

• A built-in feature - ‘Go through a big archway’, or ‘Turn right at the stairs’

• A vista - ‘Along the corridor past the garden’

Landmarks

• Corridors

• Intersections 

• Lifts

• Stairs

• Views through windows

• Built features

• Landscaping

• Views

Objects 

• Art

• Sculpture

• Icons

Treatments 

• Floor and wall treatments 

• Lighting

• Colour

• Textures