National Portrait Gallery: Wayfinding
London, UK

A timeless wayfinding scheme that responds to the listed architecture and collections

Service

Wayfinding

Sector

Culture

Challenge

An understated, accessible and discrete wayfinding and donor recognition design, creating timeless designs that respect both art and architecture

Solution

We delivered wayfinding and donor recognition design in support of a major transformation project at London’s National Portrait Gallery (NPG). Working closely with NPG, we developed a scheme that would respond to the building and improve the overall flow and experience. We designed new arrivals, applying a typeface found in historic inscriptions within the building. New NPG signs, engraved into the Portland stone façades, welcome visitors to the refreshed Gallery. From the entrance experience onwards, we wanted to let the artwork take centre stage, helping to simplify information and creating a timeless design. The wayfinding design scheme takes inspiration from Carlo Scarpa’s Easel, with brass fixings.

Result

Project is now live.