Shopping mall Futurum

In 2022, the Futurum Brno shopping center underwent a complete renovation. Following this, our task was to design a comprehensive wayfinding strategy for the adjacent parking garage. The project also included environmental graphic design (EGD) with elements overlapping into interior design—most notably, the graphic concept for entry areas on each floor.

In our design, we took inspiration from materials used in the shopping center itself, especially the combination of metal and wood. We proposed a color coding system (CCS) for the parking garage floors, using colors derived from the new facade of the shopping center: red for the first floor and yellow for the second. These colors provided sufficient contrast and improved memorability. The top level (roof) remained without color coding due to budget considerations. The chosen color scheme symbolized a journey upward toward the sun—from cooler red tones to warmer yellow—reflected also in the materials used (metal in lower levels and wood in higher ones).

The facade also inspired the graphic design for column signage, incorporating dotted patterns that reference the perforated facade panels. The icons and directional arrows follow the same design language as the signage inside the shopping center, ensuring visual consistency throughout.

A significant improvement compared to the original signage is the clearly visible green exit signs, which stand out from the rest of the color system. Automatic doors are fitted with transparent film that allows visual control of the space behind them. The design also included horizontal markings—directional arrows, floor labels, exits, and distinct color zones for wheelchair-accessible parking (blue) and electric vehicle charging (orange).

Some elements were designed with an offset from the wall surface to create visual depth and attract more attention from visitors. These included prominent floor indicators at entrances, large arrows at stairwell exits, and a 3D FUTURUM logo placed between levels near the garage exit.

Unfortunately, the renovation was put on hold, and the wayfinding strategy was not implemented. Nevertheless, we invite you to explore the visualizations, which show the direction the parking garage could have taken. Based on our observations of driver behavior and frequent confusion, we believe the space would truly benefit from a thoughtful wayfinding system.