PALACE OF SPORTS GAMES

Wayfinding that leads to victories

Client
Ministry of Sports of Sverdlovsk Region

Task
To develop and implement a design project for the wayfinding system of the Palace of Sports Games in Yekaterinburg, as part of the facility's renovation for the 2023 Universiade.
The design of the wayfinding system for the Palace of Sports Games has been developed with consideration for the multifunctionality of the venue, high foot traffic, and the need for efficient distribution of crowds during major games and events.

At the entrance to the arena, streams of people are divided using color markers and flags. We have created a color-coded navigation system that clearly structures the space, establishing a palette for different sectors. The repetition of color elements at key points allows visitors to navigate more swiftly and avoids confusion.
Four vibrant sectors guide spectators towards the stands, allowing them to immerse themselves in the game.
The use of accent colors to delineate sectors plays a vital role. This approach facilitates rapid information processing and intuitive navigation within the space.
Upon entering through the main entrance, suspended light boxes immediately guide spectators and assist them in selecting the correct path. Their large format ensures that information is easily readable from any distance. Additionally, the light boxes harmoniously complement the ceiling design.

The color of the sector letters becomes the primary visual reference, continuing the overarching visual code used in zoning the arena. This technique enhances the integrity of the wayfinding system.
A well-conceived industrial design of the wayfinding signage carries significant importance for spatial organization in large-scale sports venues. It presents information in an accessible manner, enabling visitors to locate necessary sectors, seats, and other essential infrastructure elements without delay.
The primary materials and methods employed for the application of information on signage are vandal-resistant, ensuring durability and resilience against external factors, thereby maintaining their aesthetic appearance over an extended period.
The floor maps of the venue are easily readable, thanks to an intriguing layering technique that employs materials and highlights sectors with colored transparent polycarbonate.
Finding your way to your favorite game or concert is effortless.
The unusual vertical layout of the floor signs aligns with industrial design principles, drawing attention to essential information while rendering the signage both comprehensible and visually appealing.
The typology of signage is diverse, owing to the complex architecture and interior solutions, as well as the multitude of user groups. This results in signage that is seamlessly and logically integrated into the space.
Signs and stickers are equally crucial for establishing a cohesive style throughout the venue. They help maintain a unified aesthetic in both administrative and sporting areas, facilitating navigation for the staff. This aids athletes, referees, administration, and personnel in swiftly locating essential areas.
The design of the icon set is rooted in a sporting theme. Its simple, robust, and expressive graphic style renders the icons comprehensible, easily readable, and highly visible to all visitors. Thanks to the clarity and attention to detail, it has been possible to create icons for a wide variety of spaces.
A distinctive feature of the arena is the row numbering system in the stands. The numbers are crafted using fluorescent paint embedded in stainless steel fixtures that are integrated into the homogeneous surface of the seating area. This system enables spectators to navigate easily, even in dim lighting, such as during concerts with intricate light displays.
The design and execution of the wayfinding system have evolved beyond simple convenience and functionality for visitors, blossoming into a pivotal aesthetic feature that grants the arena a refined and cohesive sporting identity.