Natural Wayfinding in Hackney Central
On 24 April 2025, James Brown, director at Air Design, will join Riccardo Bobiss and Anna Saveleva from AR Urbanism to present an insightful online talk hosted by the Sign Design Society. The session, taking place from 1:00 to 2:00 PM BST, will delve into the innovative wayfinding strategy created for Hackney Central. This strategy forms a vital part of the broader Hackney Town Centre regeneration effort.
The presentation will share key learnings from a collaborative project that brought together AR Urbanism, Air Design, Hackney Council and the local community. The objective of the initiative was to go beyond traditional signage and create a wayfinding system that genuinely reflects the area’s identity, enhances accessibility and supports community cohesion.
James will discuss the role Air Design played in the project, drawing on his experience in delivering public and private sector wayfinding systems across the UK and internationally. His past work includes projects such as the implementation of a wayfinding system for the 3Ts redevelopment at University Hospital Sussex and accessibility improvements for transit systems in Toronto. His approach centres on people-first design, placemaking and meaningful communication through spatial environments.
The Hackney Central wayfinding strategy was shaped not only by professional expertise but also through engagement with local voices. It demonstrates how wayfinding can contribute to a more connected, inclusive and vibrant urban environment. The talk will offer valuable insights for designers, planners and anyone interested in placemaking and urban strategy.
The event is free for Sign Design Society members and costs £10 for non-members. Those unable to attend live can purchase access to the recorded session for £19.
To register, email your name and contact details to enquiries@signdesignsociety.co.uk.
More information is available here.
