Designing a Wayfinding System for a Public Space
As an extension of the branding work we previously developed for Jakarta Cathedral, we were tasked with designing a wayfinding system to help visitors navigate the church grounds easily.
As the main church in Jakarta, the church attracts not only local worshippers but also tourists from around the world. A clear and intuitive signage system was essential—one that integrates seamlessly with the site's architecture while remaining visible even in crowded situations.
We began by mapping visitor flow and identifying key locations where signage was needed. One of the primary challenges was the architectural diversity across the cathedral complex, which includes both historic, classical buildings and newly constructed modern structures. Additionally, the site features a mix of indoor, outdoor, and semi-outdoor spaces, each requiring different signage formats. To accommodate these variations, we designed a range of signage types: hanging signs, wall-mounted signs, pillar signs, and standalone units. Each sign was tailored to fit its specific environment while maintaining a consistent style.
The icons set was custom-designed, drawing inspiration from stained glass motifs and the cathedral’s core logo. Using the church’s signature light blue color, the signs are noticeable from a distance without clashing with the surrounding architecture. We also carefully defined typography, font sizes, spacing, and directional formatting to ensure clarity and ease of expansion as the site continues to evolve over time.
This wayfinding system not only improves navigation but also enhances the overall visitor experience while respecting the sacred and historical character of the space.
