Creative Wayfinding Signage: Sandgate Kids Childcare Centre

WAYFINDING - MAKING SENSE OF A SMALL, COMPLEX SPACE

The Context

Navigating a facility that has expanded organically over years of renovations often results in a disjointed and confusing user experience. Sandgate Kids faced this specific challenge: a complex layout of distinct care zones, staff areas, and administration offices that made navigation difficult. The objective was to untangle this spatial complexity, ensuring parents often time-poor and rushing during drop-offs, could intuitively find their destination. The solution needed to balance clarity with the centre’s playful brand identity.

The Collaboration

POMO operated as the lead wayfinding design strategist and delivery partner. By conducting on-site behavioural analysis and reviewing architectural plans, we developed a clear picture of user needs and key destinations. We worked directly with the facility stakeholders to map user journeys, ensuring the physical response solved the underlying navigational friction rather than just adding more noise to the environment.

Delivering Sandgate Kids: The Implementation Process

Our role extended beyond graphic design into the technical specification and installation of a functional navigation system. We treated the signage as essential infrastructure, ensuring it was durable, compliant, and fit for purpose.

  • Strategic Zoning & Hierarchy: We engineered a hierarchical signage family to guide users from entry to destination. This included Centre Identification signs for arrival, Pedestrian Directionals for flow, and granular Zone/Room Identification signs (e.g., Toddlers, Kindy) to confirm arrival.
  • Technical Materiality: Durability in a high-traffic, outdoor-indoor environment is critical. We specified folded powder-coated aluminium for external directional signage to ensure longevity against the elements, and high-grade adhesive vinyls for internal flexibility. Large-format fire resistant Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) were utilised for primary site identification to ensure structural rigidity and visual impact.
  • Regulatory Compliance: The project required strict adherence to Australian Standards, particularly regarding accessibility and amenities signage. We managed the technical detailing to ensure all installed elements met certification requirements for safety and access.
  • End-to-End Delivery: POMO managed the entire fabrication and installation process. This “design and construct” methodology ensured that the strategic intent was not lost during the build phase and allowed for seamless integration into the operating facility.

The Impact

The result is a cohesive wayfinding system that has streamlined centre operations and reduced parent anxiety. By clarifying the complex built environment, the project delivers a seamless user experience that reinforces the Sandgate Kids brand at every physical touchpoint. The use of recyclable materials also ensured the project met environmental responsibilities, with signs designed for maximum recyclability at the end of their lifespan.

Social Sustainability Outcomes

  • Improved User Experience and Navigation: The primary outcome was improved navigation for parents and visitors, particularly those in a rush. The wayfinding system provides clear and simple directions to all childcare zones, administration offices, and the reception area.
  • Reinforcement of a Playful Brand Identity: The design of all the signs reinforces the playful and creative brand of the childcare centers. This helps create a cohesive, welcoming, and child-friendly atmosphere.
  • Compliance with Accessibility Standards: The project included the creation and installation of toilet signs that are compliant with Australian Standards, ensuring the facility meets important accessibility requirements

Do you have a complex facility that needs a clear navigation strategy?

Contact POMO today to discuss how we can create a wayfinding solution for you.



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