WCS Central Park Zoo Walkway
The Wildlife Conservation Society asked our class to design unique concepts for a wayfinding system for the Central Park Zoo entrance. The entrance is notoriously difficult for visitors (tourists, families, school groups etc.) to navigate ticket purchase and entering the zoo.
My Suggested Approach
Grab your binoculars and field notebook. We’re becoming WCS wildlife biologists!
Visitors of all ages will experience scenes of a wildlife biologist’s research camp and learn about the massive network of projects and training WCS provides around the world. Visitors will also be encouraged to approach their visit to the CPZ with a different layer of curiosity and role play, all while actively embracing a scientific mindset.
Why this concept?
Makes arriving at CPZ clear, playful and curious.
Tells the worldwide story of WCS conservation.
Sparks youth to envision a career in caring for animals.
Prepares audiences to engage differently during their visit to the Central Park Zoo.
Circular Motif
I found many objects that biologists use to examine and record had circular lenses or class, like binoculars, cameras, magnifying glasses and compasses. I wanted to use repeating multi-colored circles at different scales to playfully build on top of the existing signage in the space.
My initial sketches explored what activities and prompts would make sense, as well as early visual concepts.
Playful Wayfinding
Stacked, modular signage podiums could be added and adjusted for each location’s unique needs. Lower circles on the podium would be fun icons or spin to engage children at that height in a unique way.
Immersive Activity-Based Signage Areas
Outside the zoo, signage is integrated within a wooden playground, so even guests passing by can understand the scope of the WCS conservation projects around the world and children can begin to embody the role of wildlife professionals through play.
Other activations and signage throughout the zoo would immerse the attendees into the role of a wildlife biologist.
Sparkling Entrance and Exit
Upon arrival, guests would enter underneath a cascade of circular hanging circular charms. These charms would have varying levels of opacity that would capture sunlight and suggest a transition from outside the zoo to within the zoo.
Staff Attire
Staff would be encouraged to wear bright teal vests and bucket hats. These bright and playful outfits would clearly communicate who staff are to guests. Additionally, similar to how Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts, the WCS could add badges and pins that communicate their unique appreciation and connection to different animals at the zoo.
