Thanks to wayfinding, people are able to navigate themselves in unfamiliar territory. While architecture is becoming more complex, it becomes hard for people to find their way in large spaces, such as airports, universities, hospitals and more.
Imagine walking through the airport and their no signs or arrows to guide you. You would get lost in the huge space and lose your way. We don't give enough credit to the huge signs telling us where our gates are.
This is a picture of an airport sign showing that gates 1-20 for international departure are that way.
This is a perfect example of wayfinding.
Another example of wayfinding would be the symbol for restrooms on the door. Imagine your in a store with a 100 different closets/ door. Without the identification, you would not know which one is a restroom.
Even street signs are an example of wayfinding. Like a sign that indicates a dead end. If it wasn't there, we would never know.
This example of wayfinding allows handicapped individuals know there is a specific entrance that would be easier for them.
Overall, wayfinding is a huge part of our everyday life and we don't even notice. Next time you see a street sign or a sign that leads you a certain way, think of wayfinding and its principles. I know I will!
<3 Berta