What approach was taken?

A subtle one. A neutral colour palette was adopted, using grey tones shot through with more vibrant supporting colours. A restrained bespoke typeface, Swiss Re Sans, together with a system of easily interpreted pictograms, was used throughout the building, bringing consistency and a suitably discreet tone to the design. All internal signage needed to be future-proof – easily updateable to take into account evolving usage and tenancy. This was achieved through modular wall directories and door plating, which can be adapted as necessary.

The real challenge at the Swiss Re building was helping staff, clients and visitors make sense of a highly unusual layout. Providing relevant information as to how to use the lifts and lobbies was a key consideration, and the rest of the system fell into place from this starting point.