Giving places a faceWayfinding systems for Deutsche Bahn
At the end of every S-Bahn journey, the hectic platform awaits: the moment you step off, you need to get your bearings and decide how to continue, whether left or right along the track. Poor signage makes itself noticed by being absent. At three stations in Offenbach, that is now over. As an addition to the existing DB system, we integrated wayfinding systems that enable quick orientation and give previously hard-to-distinguish stations their own distinctive identity. Working within tight time, budget and safety requirements, we developed visually compelling signage systems. They withstand vandalism and improve the quality of stay for users.
Analysis
Balancing the status quo with what users want
The new wayfinding systems are part of Deutsche Bahn’s “Future Stations” initiative. In this context, the Bahn team analyzed the locations in advance, conducted user surveys and defined areas for improvement. The stations were to become friendlier and more inviting, increase the feel-good factor and make orientation easier. The results included extensive cleaning and repair work, contemporary and comfortable platform furniture, and an additional intuitive wayfinding system. Who has not been frustrated after choosing the wrong exit, especially at long stations?
Architecture
Creating a system designed with and from its surroundings
Additional signage works best when it fits into the existing architecture. In our three cases, it takes up architectural elements and interprets them differently: sometimes the grid becomes a cheerful, colorful play of squares; elsewhere the round forms of the lighting continue in the signs. The choice of materials and the method of installation, for example on the trusses, were selected so that all elements form a harmonious architectural whole.
From Marktplatz to Kaiserlei - with design that provides orientation, you learn to understand and appreciate Offenbach.
Materiality
Accounting for the special challenges of public space
The signage needed to be beautiful, functional, cost-effective and durable. Above all, it had to comply with fire safety regulations and avoid inviting vandalism, or withstand attempts if they occurred. This was a real challenge at the stations. By choosing direct foil applications and aluminum panels laminated with foil on the reverse as the main carriers, we met these requirements. At the Kaiserlei and Ledermuseum stations, these were complemented by special colored mirrored aluminum panels. Perhaps because of their distinctiveness, they have survived to this day without graffiti.
Storytelling
Telling the stories of a place and reflecting its identity
Signage does more than provide orientation; through its design it also shapes the identity of each place. Users experience the location in a completely new way, identify with it and sometimes rediscover what they already know. At Marktplatz, Offenbach’s cultural and linguistic diversity is connected; at Ledermuseum, users learn interesting details about special exhibits right at the stop. Interaction options create a special connection, as at Ledermuseum and Kaiserlei, where even augmented reality is used.
Implementation
Experimentally testing limits again and again
A piece of advice for anyone who wants to design: good design emerges through making, through experiments with unknown outcomes. In the digital age, this often happens only on the computer. But when the final product is analog, the tests must also be analog. For the signage, we carried out numerous tests: color tests, structure tests, size tests, type tests, legibility tests, material tests, tests of different foil applications with protective laminates, printed reflective foils, and various varnishes and paint colors. And never forget checking and testing on site. Our clients and we love these moments with pleasant surprises. Want more insight? We share our design process here.
