Directories
Strategically
placed building directories are one of the initial elements of a
wayfinding system. Building directories are one of the primary
information and orientation tools for users, requiring special
attention in design and layout. Exterior
directories are constructed of a wide variety of materials, and
should be integrated into a custom cabinet to
compliment your building’s interior architectural detailing and
materials.
Directories
must be durable for vandal resistance, modular for easy maintenance,
and organized with obvious alphabetical or departmental listings.
Pre-manufactured modular strip systems are recommended to simplify the
updating process.
Directories can
be installed either as a projecting unit or integrated into a wall
surface. Projecting units, however, must provide a skirt or “cane
strike” to meet ADA requirements (Fig. 1).
The
accessibility requirements for informational signs such as building
directories can seem confusing. Since the ADA does not specifically
address informational signs, many people think that they are exempt
from the regulations. This is not the case.
This type of
sign must comply with the general requirements for sign finish,
contrast and character proportion under the signage section of the
ADA. Informational signs do not require Braille or tactile characters
and symbols, but other signage requirements do apply:
Building
Directories mounted behind glass must use non-glare glass.
Character
proportions must meet the proper width to height ratio.
Characters
and backgrounds of signs must be of an eggshell, matte or other
non-glare finish.
Characters
and symbols must contrast with their background (light background
with dark letters or dark background with light letters).
Meeting these
requirements will make informational signage easier to read for
everyone. To determine sign requirements for state and local codes,
contact your local Sign
Biz Sign Design Professional.
Figure
1
Non-Illuminated
Directories-
Typically used
in buildings that have a relatively small number of tenants or spaces
that need identification. Each directory is custom built to be in
harmony with its environment. Often, materials and finishes from the
building's construction process can be used (fig.
2).
Upper floor
directories should utilize the same colors and typography standards,
to link them with the main lobby directory design (Fig. 2).
Directories are a must in multi-tenant office buildings. Function,
style, and serviceability are all important criteria in selecting the
type of directory that best suits a particular facility.
Metal frame with clear lenses (non-glare) over the tenant directory
name strips making the graphic more vandal resistant (Fig. 2)
Figure 2
Exterior Directories
Exterior Directories should provide a clear, effective way-finding
system to direct first time visitors, repeat traffic and delivery
traffic. A multi-faceted approach to way-finding can be implemented to
accommodate the diversity of visual and reading abilities of the
public. Several levels of information to direct to destinations may be
displayed concurrently, including name, number and color.
Buildings should be conceptually grouped by related services and
building numbers reinforced with reference designations and color.
Building Directories listing services located within buildings are
located at the entrances.
FIRST
IMPRESSIONS
