Environmental (EGD) and Experiential (XGD) graphic design are multi-disciplinary approaches that seek to create a connection between people and place. It melds both architecture and graphic design as a means of developing a sense of exerpeince. The word environmental refers to graphic design as part of creating the built environment. Experiential, on the other hand, refers more to the emotive response or the potential interactive nature of a designed space.
According to the Society of Experiential Graphic Design (SEGD) this work tends to entail “static and digital wayfinding systems, signage, environmental graphics, exhibition content, multimedia installations, public art, user interfaces, and branded/corporate environments.” All of which make for rich interactions between an individual and the information being provided.
Operating at the intersection of communications and the built environment, the field embraces a wide range of disciplines including graphic design, architectural, interior, landscape, digital and industrial design.
Wayfinding Systems
Have you ever found yourself lost in a new city, unable to find that one store in a mall, or wandering around a building looking for a specific room? Perhaps you turned to a map, signage, or display that allowed you to arrive successfully at your destination.
Simply put, that’s wayfinding.
People require cues such as directions and symbols, which contribute effectively to a sense of well-being, safety, and security.
Essentially wayfinding refers to information systems that guide people through a physical environment which enhances the understanding and experience of the space. It’s a necessary feature of complex buildings or areas, such as hospitals or university campuses.
Branded Environments
Branding is one of the most important aspects of any business, as an effective strategy gives you a major edge in increasingly competitive markets. A strong brand provides a distinct identity and leads to lasting recognition.
Branded environments extend the experience of an organization’s identity, or distinguishing characteristics (such as names, themes, symbols, designs) to a physical space. This allows a brand to saturate and extend into an experience of sorts, which in turn can convey the essence of a company.
Likewise, branded storytelling can permeate an environment, to display historical significance or to educate.
Architectural Graphic Signage
Architectural signage and 3D manifestations are a prominent and often overlooked aspect of EGD/XGD. This type of work usually involves designers, planners, engineers and craftspeople to ensure all aspects from concept to implementation are successful.
These signs can act as a form of extended branding as well as an aspect of wayfinding. Proper functionality and form allow for companies to be identifiable, but also stand out. They are usually crafted with a higher attention to detail then would be found in an average commercial sign, and are built to integrate brand identity.
Multimedia Installations
As digital technologies continue to rapidly progress, XGD professionals are utilizing new integrations to create interactive experiences between people and space.
For example, digital displays such as touch screen wayfinding systems, or apps that augment reality curtailed to a branded identity, are allowing to grain personalized and memorable experiences
These types of immersive technologies are providing both designers and individuals to gain greater control over physical space, and therefore, create greater connections.
Here at WFS we offer outstanding graphic design support, thanks to our talented in-house designer, Gabe Griffiths. We commit to the process of brainstorming, creative development, and flawless production to implement the highest standard of environmental graphic design. We can help with wayfinding, design according to your branding, and help to enhance and extend your identity.
