Wickham Theatre Wayfinding
University of Bristol
The University of Bristol’s Theatre Building is home to Wickham Theatre, the Drama department and the Theatre Collection. As two buildings which had been joined together over time, the space had become difficult to navigate. We were briefed with creating a wayfinding system which would help students, staff and guests find each area easily, while celebrating the long history of study and performance in the building.
The building has two main entrances, on the top floor is the Drama department and Wickham Theatre, whilst down the hill on Park Row is the entrance to the Theatre Collection. We chose different fonts for each to help differentiate the two; the main Theatre Building uses a lowercase Helvetica, in keeping with the pre-existing Wickham Theatre sign, while the Theatre Collection uses an uppercase condensed version, similar to woodblock type which is a nod to the building’s former use as a printworks.
As one of the world’s largest archives of British theatre history and Live Art, we wanted to help showcase their collection and were given access to the archive rooms to draw on imagery to use throughout the building.
In order to stay in keeping with the University’s branding we used a system of dibond signs for wayfinding information, and proposed using a poster paste technique to place imagery from the collection directly to the walls. Inspired by public spaces displaying multiple layers of posters, we wanted to create an aesthetic which showed both the history of the Theatre Building, and invoke a vibrant and busy energy, allowing the wall’s textures and imperfections to show through.
On the Wickham Theatre side of the building, we reused posters from student plays in the building, dating back to the mid 20th century to inspire students with the history of the performances that have come before them.
Bright colours from the university’s brand palette were used to inject colour and help differentiate between different floors. Images for signs were paired up with quotes from the world of theatre, and chosen to reflect room use.
The team at Greenhat were brilliant from the very first meeting to discuss ideas through to the final install dealing with issues patiently, professionally and with tact. The finished product exceeded expectations and has greatly enhanced the space for all users. Great work thanks!
The team at Greenhat were brilliant from the very first meeting to discuss ideas through to the final install dealing with issues patiently, professionally and with tact. The finished product exceeded expectations and has greatly enhanced the space for all users. Great work thanks!
– Deborah Gibbs, Resource Manager, Dept of Music, Film and Theatre
