Wayfinding

For my way finding investigation I did it on the Auckland Museum. I got dropped off from new market train station and walked upon the first sign guiding me to the Auckland museum which then led me to the Grafton entrance.

Once I was in the Grafton entrance it was a 5 minute walk when I saw the third sign that also showed a map to get to different destinations. It wasn’t difficult getting to the museum because all I had to do was do a 10 min walk on domain drive until you see a big white building on a hill full of greenery.

Once you enter into the museum, the grand foyer would probably be the only place  that has a lot of signs, these signs that are being shown are all about policy, not pushing the front door as you walk in, bag checks and knowing what is allowed in the museum and not allowed and so on.

When you’re walking around the museum it’s not that hard trying to find what you’re looking for because there are only 3 levels in the building and each level has different groups, to get to those different groups, the stairs and the elevator are the only options you can use. 

Each level has its own map, from my point of view I think that signs don’t really play a big part at the museum, the signs are there…but it is the way each level looks and what is around it, you will know exactly what level you’re in. When you’re in the war gallery, you know for sure it’s the war gallery because once you enter the room you feel like you’re actually in it, hearing the sounds of gun shots, the dark and gritty feeling you get throughout the whole level.

Probably the only thing you need is the map on your hands and what group you want to see within all 3 levels. 

The use of graphic and text that is seen all the walls to showcase all groups is successfully portrayed, each group being different from each by having its own source of images containing history.

         

The gallery of nature, a place full of greenery, trees everywhere and hearing the sound of waterfalls and birds, feeling peaceful and relaxed. These are just two examples; each group gives off a different vibe when you enter.

Pacific lifeway’s which was on the ground floor was the only group that showed a different form of signs, instead of the sign being planted on a wall it shined onto the ground with the use of lighting from the ceiling. Each sign was placed in different areas within the level and showcased different cultural groups and their artefacts.

Reflecting on the way finding on the Auckland Museum,  from my point of view I don’t think they  have to change their designs because they have done a good job on utilising the elements for each level, being well structured and successfully conveying the theme that is being showcased.