CASE STUDIES
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SHAKER SQUARE WAYFINDING PROGRAM

Phase I: dig down
Shaker Square is one of the oldest shopping plazas in the country. When The Coral Company purchased the property in 2004, they turned to Studio Graphique to develop a brand identity, wayfinding system, and environmental graphics program that will enhance and energize the space. The project team originally included MSI, Bialosky + Partners, and Julie Moir Messervy, landscape architect. McKnight Associates is the current LA and will work closely with Studio Graphique to bring branding and placemaking elements into the public space as the project picks up steam again.

Phase 2: build up
Studio Graphique started with an audit of the current conditions of Shaker Square. Through photo documentation, observation, and transcription of current messages, we quickly determined that the existing program was inefficient at announcing or branding the historic district and wayfinding signage was virtually non-existent.

Simultaneously, we developed a visual identity (logo) with a more contemporary appeal that uses the circle in the square symbol to identify Shaker Square (the round-about was originally a circle when it was first developed).

The sign program was designed to have a modern appeal while complementing the historical nature and Georgian architecture of the district. The mosaic color palette was created to enliven the space and add interest. Large monument structures give visitors a sense of arrival and parking directionals were designed to be obvious in this confusing area.

To play off the night and day theme of the Square, Studio Graphique used LED technology on lamp pole banners feature the logo by day and dynamic graphics by night.

Phase 3: move forward
The signage and placemaking program was well received (and approved) by the local development organization, the City of Cleveland, Landmarks Commission, and Streetscapes. Fabrication estimates have come in (on budget!) and we hope the program will go into fabrication in 2007.