Canary Wharf is one of London’s iconic mixed-use developments, with a working population of 120,000 and over 300 premium shops, cafés, bars and restaurants. It houses five multi-level malls and now integrates the Norman Foster-designed Crossrail Place, home to the new Elizabeth line station.
Applied has been working with Canary Wharf on a durable programme to improve the experience of visitors and workers, while delivering a brand experience that is sympathetic to Canary Wharf’s positioning.
3.8 billion development pipeline
97 acres site coverage
16 million square feet of retail and business
49 million annual visitors
Complex Environment
The development included a number of deceptively complex buildings with counterintuitive structural layouts. Axonometric mapping was used to address some of the navigational challenges.
Interpretive signs
Educational interpretive information on elements of the natural environment formed part of the visitor experience. The system did more than just get users from point A to point B.
Icon design
A new custom set of wayfinding icons was created to complement Canary Wharf’s new brand identity.
Sign Design
Integration of brand elements into the new wayfinding product and graphic approach.
Information curation
A complex research and planning process underlined the rationale behind information inclusion and balance on wayfinding elements.