Case Study

St. John Medical Center Wayfinding Project

Richards was tasked with rebranding and implementing a wayfinding system for St. John Medical Center, transitioning from Mercy Medical while maintaining its Catholic heritage under University Hospitals. The project involved redesigning signage and directories, incorporating the UH brand.
St. John Medical Center Wayfinding Project
The Challenges

The project presented several unique challenges:

  1. Brand Integration: Merging the University Hospitals brand with St. John Medical Center's existing Catholic identity.
  2. Soothing Design: Creating a wayfinding system that was not only informative but also calming and soothing for patients and visitors.
  3. Dynamic Changes: Continuously updating signage to reflect ongoing renovations and additions, like the Rainbow Babies and Children's Services and the OB department.
  4. Campus Complexity: Navigating the complexity of a large campus with multiple buildings, parking areas, and emergency facilities.

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The Approach

Our approach involved:

  1. Harmonizing Brands: Developing a sign system that blended the University Hospitals brand with St. John Medical Center’s.
  2. Calming Aesthetics: Designing directories and wayfinding signs with a calming and soothing aesthetic.
  3. Adaptive Design Solutions: Continually adapting and updating signage to accommodate renovations and new services.
  4. Comprehensive Wayfinding: Implementing a campus-wide wayfinding system, including exterior signage, monument signs, and parking guidance.

The Results

The outcomes of the project were:

  1. Effective Brand Coexistence: Successful integration of the University Hospitals brand with the existing identity of St. John Medical Center.
  2. Enhanced Patient Experience: A wayfinding system that not only guided but also provided a soothing experience for patients and visitors.
  3. Responsive Signage System: An adaptable and up-to-date signage system that reflects the evolving needs of the medical center.
  4. Improved Campus Navigation: Enhanced navigation across the large campus, with clear signage for parking, emergency access, and main entrances.

The project at UH St. John Medical Center set a precedent for our on going partnership with University Hospitals, establishing Richards as the primarysign contractor for the network. This engagement highlights our expertise in managing complex wayfinding needs while respecting and incorporating existing cultural and brand elements.

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The Challenges
The Approach
The Results
Project gallery