Driscoll Children’s Wayfinding System
FORMATION developed a comprehensive wayfinding and environmental graphics system for Driscoll Children’s Hospital. The project involved research into existing wayfinding challenges as well as institutional and the regional culture of South Texas.
The Challenge
The project involved research into existing wayfinding challenges as well as institutional and the regional culture of South Texas. This knowledge informed a refreshed naming system for buildings and parking lots, a reworked signage program that integrates with playful environmental graphics programs, and corresponding printed materials that enhance both patient and operational experience.
Project Vision
The overhauled signage system was well received by Driscoll, serving as the catalyst for a renewed wayfinding strategy across multiple campuses. This effort culminated in a comprehensive system-wide wayfinding and donor standards manual.
The solution simplified destination nomenclature and introduced graphic landmarks inspired by contemporary serape patterns, reducing the ‘memory load’ required for guests to navigate the space.
Elevator lobby environmental graphics and integrated building directory sign
Tyler Swanner
Interior directional sign
Tyler Swanner
Design + Execution
To ensure flexibility, we designed a modular system reminiscent of an erector set. These components can be easily expanded, contracted, or reconfigured using simple mechanical connectors—a feature that has already proven invaluable for a client managing frequent updates across rapidly expanding campuses.
Interior directional sign
Tyler Swanner
Elevator blade sign
Tyler Swanner
Patient bed sign
Tyler Swanner
Interior environmental graphics program for elevator lobbies that create distinct visuals for each level. The design invokes traditional and regional textile patterning.
Tyler Swanner
Exterior directional sign
Tyler Swanner
Project Details
Excellent use of modularity and systems-thinking for a wayfinding project that highly resonates with broad audiences including children. Graphic selections and hierarchy reinforce the thoughtfulness that has been evident throughout the concept and execution.
To create crystal clear Wayfinding in a playful, cheerful way that brings a playful spirit into this environment is a true gift to its little patients.
Design Team
Philip LeBlanc (principal in charge)
Andrea Novali (art director)
Bruce Chao (designer)
Nadia Tran (project manager)
Duane Farthing (documentation)
Collaborators
Hardman Signs (fabrication)
NEC (fabrication)
Maverick Murals (fabrication)
Gerry Muyshondt (driscoll marketing senior director)
Photo Credits
Tyler Swanner (photography, videography)
Open Date
November 2025
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