Capturing Campus Culture
Fontys University of Applied Sciences is constantly adjusting its campus, transforming it into a space that goes beyond traditional teaching. Silo focuses on enhancing learning environments through wayfinding, storytelling and spatial branding, catering to a very diverse student community. The goal is to create an inspiring and engaging atmosphere that distinctly represents Fontys.
Client
Fontys University of Applied Sciences
Partners
Architect: Barcode Architects + Nudus
Interior architect: Hollandse Nieuwe
Landscape architect: OKRA
Fontys Rachelsmolen Campus, Eindhoven
Transforming a campus
Situated close to the city centre of Eindhoven, the Fontys University of Applied Sciences Campus has undergone continuous enhancements to enrich the learning environment. The recent development introduces three new buildings surrounding an outdoor communal and teaching space. The transformation extends beyond the campus, turning it from an enclosed space into an open park accessible to both students and residents of the adjacent neighbourhood.
Added value for learning spaces
Aligning with evolving expectations, Fontys adapts its campus to cater not only to teaching but also to provide an encouraging environment for students spending extended hours on campus. Acknowledging varied learning preferences, Silo collaborates with Fontys to add value through storytelling and spatial branding. This helps to effectively convey the organisation’s values while establishing a unique identity.
The first collaboration in 2013 focused on the redevelopment of the R3 building for economic studies. The bold graphic design immerses students in economics and business, with spatial branding and wayfinding aiding navigation from the vibrant entrance upwards to quieter workspaces.
One story, three chapters
Returning to the campus a decade later, we were challenged to unify the three new buildings while keeping their unique qualities and purpose distinguishable. Creating a visual narrative that unfolds in three chapters, the concept emphasizes each student’s unique journey. The connecting storyline explores growth symbolised by flowing water, the collection and use of personal and professional artefacts, and fundamental personal transformation through acquiring soft skills.
The visual qualities of the design reflect these different perspectives, transitioning from abstract droplets in building R11, to hand-drawn objects for R12, and intricate text-based lineplay in R13. The visual layer is executed in harmony with Hollandse Nieuwe’s expressive interior colour scheme.
Outstanding wayfinding and signage
The design for wayfinding and signage takes cues from the geometry of the buildings and the use of meshes. The pictograms were developed specifically for Fontys and add playfulness to the straightforward signs. The custom markers for restrooms and print hubs literally stand out as do the elegant illuminated signs, for instance at the Explore Lab.
R11, R12 and R13 are delivered by Barcode Architects and Nudus, partner Caro van de Venne, with interior architects Hollandse Nieuwe and landscape architect OKRA.
