Blog
Allison Dining Commons Signage
In the final phase of the remarkable $19 million renovation at Allison Dining Commons, the focus shifted towards the creation and installation of graphics and signage to enhance the dining hall’s aesthetic appeal and provide valuable information. As part of this process, my role was decide what graphics to designs, choose where to place them, create renderings, set up the files for printing and work with the vendor to install the signage.
Transforming the Dining Experience
The first step involved placing station signage throughout the dining hall to maintain consistency and effectively communicate various initiatives. Each station had to be measured so that I could come up with a good lettering size that will work for each station. Vendor specifications had to be taken into account too as only letters 2″ wide can be printed. In particular, the gluten-free station required special attention to avoid any confusion and cross-contamination. A large dining icon for “gluten-free” was displayed on the wall, clearly distinguishing it from other stations. Stickers and signage were strategically placed to indicate that the toaster and waffle maker were exclusively for gluten-free options.
In particular, the gluten-free station required special attention to avoid any confusion and cross-contamination. A large dining icon for “gluten-free” was displayed on the wall, clearly distinguishing it from other stations. Stickers and signage were strategically placed to indicate that the toaster and waffle maker were exclusively for gluten-free options.
Highlighting Dining Program Initiatives
To add functional and informative elements, I created a frosted window wrap featuring messages such as “We cook from scratch” and “We source responsibly.” This not only served to cover up the frequently dirty glass window but also conveyed important messages about the dining hall’s values and practices. Additionally, square acrylic stand-off art was utilized to highlight the dining program’s initiatives, such as “Eat local” and “Fair trade coffee.” For informational pieces, a vinyl wrap was designed with the flexibility to be updated annually, allowing for easy replacement and interchangeability. To maintain consistency with the interior design, a subway tile background in the same size as the existing tiles in the dining hall was created, seamlessly blending the signage with the overall aesthetic.
Prominent + Purposeful
During the ideation process I started with a comprehensive walk-through, identifying strategic opportunities for placing graphics. Essential signage requirements were assessed, distinguishing them from optional signage. Measurements were meticulously taken and renderings were generated to visualize the placement of each graphic. Prepress files were prepared to ensure optimal printing quality and accuracy, setting the stage for collaboration with the vendor during the installation phase. Guiding and instructing the vendor, I ensured that each graphic was expertly placed, bringing the envisioned design to life within Allison Dining Commons.
Informative + Adaptable
The successful integration of graphics and signage in the renovated dining hall not only enhanced its visual appeal but also improved the overall dining experience for students. The placement of informative elements, station signage, and functional artwork created a cohesive and engaging environment. It is through marketing and designs that we were able to achieve a successful execution, further elevating the dining experience at Allison Dining Commons.
