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Wayfinding experts Zoë Barrett and Patrick Eley have a unique way of thinking about space. They know just how to guide people from A to B with ease, no matter how higgledy-piggledy the building or complex the environment. Zoë and Patrick consider every detail of their work carefully, with aspects such as shape, colour, typeface, graphic design, materials and iconography forming an integral part of their strategically placed signage and maps. Their job is to make sense of confusion with beautiful, simple, modern designs and attractive invitations to ‘walk this way’.

From their studio in central London, they’ve designed wayfinding systems for flagship museums and art galleries, sprawling office blocks, and maze-like hospitals. Comedian and writer Tony Hawks (author of Round Ireland with a Fridge) finds out how their work is a fascinating mix of liasing with architects, interior designers, and clients, and getting technical about things like what material a sign’s made from, what colour it should be, and how exactly to construct it. Tony also discovers the many and subtle considerations Zoë and Patrick have to take into account when designing a wayfinding system that works for everyone.

If you’ve ever been lost in an airport, shopping centre or museum, or can’t find your way to the toilets, this episode of In the Studio is for you.

Presenter: Tony Hawks

A Tandem production for Â鶹Éç World Service