Kingsbridge
Destination wayfinding that tells a story
This wayfinding system for the town of Kingsbridge in South Devon was developed to encourage visitors to extend they stay and explore the area’s many attractions.
It was noted by the Tourist Information Office that many visitors would ask where the estuary was, which was right behind them, so some signage would really help ease their workload, and this helped inform the location planning element of the strategy.
The program’s design is inspired by William Cookworthy, who was born in Kingsbridge and first developed British porcelain. Our historical research lead to the development of an earthy colour palette with cobalt highlights and typography reminiscent of the potters’ marks. The user is encouraged to explore this picturesque town just as Cookworthy once did.
Photographs of Cookworthy’s porcelain from the local museum and quotes from The White Road, Edmund de Waal’s novel about the origins of porcelain, feature on the signs, creating a narrative for the town.
The result is a wayfinding scheme truly unique to Kingsbridge and that tells a story for visitors to the town.
“I’d just like to add my personal thanks for the excellent way in which this whole process was carried out — from the fantastic design to the final installation.
[Steer’s team] were smashing guys who were really professional and helpful. Top marks to them and to you all. We’ve had lots of very positive comments from the public, which is very pleasing too!”
Client: Kingsbridge Town Council
Partners: Trueform