Legibility and continuity in the built environment

Abstract

Wayfinding is enhanced when a city is properly designed, in much the same way that buildings with well–located front doors are easier to enter. Written from a planning and design perspective, this chapter addresses key wayfinding design considerations that reduce the need for signage. It focuses on two paramount themes in community wayfinding: legibility and continuity. Legibility revolves around reading. We “read” streets and cities in much the same way that we read landscapes and maps. Water flows downhill from hills toward creeks. Thicker lines on maps represent higher concentrations. We look for clues that tell us where we are, what others are doing, where we want to go, and how to get there. The clues are context, network, and markers. Continuity is about consistency’in design, colors, signs, structure, and phases. When these markers are placed consistently and continually along a path, wayfinding is enhanced. The chapter provides many illustrations of design features and practices to ensure good wayfinding and identifies the roles of key players in design and implementation.