Case Analysis of the Wayfinding System Design for Sydney Ferry Terminal, Australia

I. Project Background

Centered on Circular Quay, the Sydney Ferry Terminal is one of Australia's oldest and most functionally complex water transport hubs, with a development history spanning colonial, industrial, and modern urban transformation eras.

2. Analysis of Key Design Points

Three - Dimensional Signage at the Entrance

Visual Identity ability: The 3D letters take the texture of colonial-era ship anchor chains as the design prototype. Through laser etching technology, the circular structure and rust marks of the anchor chains are transformed into the surface texture of the letters, forming a visual symbol akin to an "industrial heritage code" that reinforces the historical narrative of the terminal as the starting point of Sydney's maritime civilization.

Material and Craftsmanship:The letters are cut from weathered steel plates, with colonial-era ship anchor chain textures etched on the surface and LED light strips embedded at the bottom. During the day, the natural texture of the weathered steel echoes the 1960s brutalist architectural heritage, while at night, the illuminated outlines form "historical silhouettes," enhancing the terminal's recognition as a city landmark.

3.Summary of Design Effects

Through innovative designs of core elements such as entrance weathered steel 3D signage, tidal dynamic indicators, and nautical symbol lockers, the wayfinding system of the Sydney Ferry Terminal has established a guiding framework with distinct historical narratives, intelligent functional responsiveness, and unique aesthetic styles. From inheriting maritime civilization to enhancing modern transportation efficiency, it not only strengthens the terminal's recognition as a city landmark but also optimizes passengers' travel experiences through immersive design language, becoming a model case of "symbiosis between historical gravitas and technological futurism" in wayfinding design for global waterfront transportation hubs.

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Case Interpretation Designer:

Myra

Publisher:

 Charcy

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