Color Coding
Many of the exhibits are in cohesive or difficult to know when you’ve left one and entered another. Adding color to idenify your location will help parents and children alike. These colors would also correspond to the colors displayed on the museum map. A block of flooring in front of each entrance would be painted with the corresponding color.
Map Redesign
The new map implementation simplifies the building structure and adds shapes and color to help code and visualize the locations of exhibits. Staff use areas are grayed out in contrast with the bright colors of the attractions. A selective number of symbols are used to show restrooms, entrances, stairs, etc. These color blocks also correspond with the painted blocks in front of each exhibit. This helps cohesively tie the two wayfinding implementations together.
Incorporating History into Design
Incorporating the history of the Natural History Museum into the design and wayfinding solutions is important. The museum features an exhibit based solely on the history and wildlife within Michigan. I felt it was important to incorporate colors and imagery that pulls from Michigan history and entices children and adults alike to visit and experience the museum in the best possible way.
