Criticize the ADA and EGD elements at the (HERE EAST) building.

The Here East building boasts well-defined elements both in its exterior and interior design. This project is tailored for individuals and companies at the forefront of technology, fostering collaboration, and nurturing innovation. It caters to start-ups and entrepreneurial ventures, as well as established businesses, all with a shared commitment to driving technological advancements. The building's color scheme predominantly features orange and black, with orange taking center stage in the wayfinding and Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) systems. Contrasting this, black is primarily reserved for specific signs and external totems.

One notable strength lies in the variety of sign sizes and line widths, making the orange elements distinct against white backgrounds. This deliberate choice aids quick and easy differentiation and enhances the overall user experience. The color palette strikes a balance between the vibrant orange and the surrounding environment, fostering a serene and comfortable atmosphere.

The project focuses on creating large, easily recognizable signs both inside and outside the building. To enhance user comprehension, universally understood symbols and signage have been employed, catering to people of all ages. The use of a single color in the design simplifies navigation, reducing the time spent deciphering directions. Engraved symbols on the floors and walls further facilitate rapid movement within the building.

Materials play a pivotal role in the design's success, combining scale, color, and shape to reinforce the effectiveness of EGD. Horizontal lines on the ground delineate pathways between spaces, while wall-based lines and symbols guide movement. External signs and totems offer clear information from a distance without causing confusion. Large totem signs, featuring digital displays, provide essential information and maps for visitors. Similarly, large letters on exterior walls effectively point out entrances. Internally, engraved lines, colors, and symbols on floors and walls serve as wayfinding aids.

While some symbols engraved on the walls are universally understandable due to their lack of text, those engraved on the ground pose challenges for comprehension. These symbols draw inspiration from electronic circuit diagrams, a concept not universally recognized, requiring visitors to obtain instruction cards for interpretation. To enhance accessibility, it may be advisable to replace these symbols with ground-printed path lines. Furthermore, the design largely meets ADA requirements, but it lacks Braille language on the wayfinding elements, limiting accessibility for those with visual disabilities.

In summary, the Here East building effectively employs harmonious elements, colors, and materials in its ADA and EGD design. The use of a single color simplifies navigation, and the design's clarity and lightness benefit both interior and exterior wayfinding. Nevertheless, the complex electronic circuit symbols on the ground may pose challenges for some visitors, and the absence of Braille language represents a gap in accessibility. Addressing these concerns would further enhance the user experience and inclusivity of the Here East building.

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References:

1- Makowski, Ann. “Here East Wayfinding.” SEGD. April 04, 2018. Accessed July 28, 2018. https://segd.org/here-east-wayfinding.