SMITH COLLEGE:
Neilson Library
PROBLEM
How might we develop a wayfinding system for the newly developed Neilson Library that empowers women?
BACKGROUND:
Smith College is a private liberal arts women's college in Northampton, MA that champions women's education, fosters academic freedom, addresses global challenges, and advocates for women's rights and dignity.
SOLUTION SUMMARY:
After due research, we acknowledged the architecture designed by powerful American female Architect, Maya Lin, and designed a wayfinding system that complemented without distracting from the beauty of her work. This was done through references in form, materiality and room naming conventions.
DEVELOPING THE PRODUCT:
Form
Freestanding components borrow the proportion and form of existing pillars and interior structures.
Finishes
The material palette chosen reflects neutral colored painted acrylic and brush metals. As an exterior and interior program, the choice of metals were adapted on the exterior to withstand intense weather local to Northampton.
Donor Component - Room Naming Conventions
Rooms and spaces associated with donors were linguistically linked to honor alumni. Size and location of signage was strategically designed to be appropriate to the financial gift. This process involved careful stakeholder engagement and buy-in.