After researching the University’s history and spending time on campus we defined unifying features that gave us clear conceptual drivers for the signage design. We took inspiration from the brutalist and mid-century architecture found on campus; strong vertical and horizontal characteristics define many of the buildings with a focus on modularity and form.

The resulting signage reflects these observations: Bold and unapologetic in form, it is highly functional and legible. A palette of material textures have been used to define buildings, whilst colour is reserved to distinguish one area of campus from another.

Alongside the bespoke signage system, we created a new display typeface for the campus, Essex Modular, to help unify the signage family. This features vertical and horizontal lines that echo the architecture on site and creates a unique modular typeface.

Architects: Essex Business School – BDP / Silberrad Student Centre & The Albert Sloman Library – Patel Taylor

Photography: Jill Tate