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The Fred Hutch Cancer Center (FHCC) wanted to improve the patient experience at its new clinic. To this end, it partnered with B+H EXD to design a new wayfinding system for the interior and update the exterior signage to reflect its recent brand refresh.
From project initiation, B+H EXD prioritized user experience. They collaborated with FHCC’s Project Planning Partners and gathered valuable insights from staff and leadership. This feedback directly influenced the design and development of the signage programs. B+H EXD also worked closely with ZGF Architects and FHCC’s branding agency, BrandActive, to ensure the new signage was seamlessly integrated with the existing buildings’ designs and colour schemes. This included designing new signs for pedestrian entrances, parking garages, and building facades.
Patient well-being was a top concern. B+H EXD created an interior wayfinding system that promotes a calming and serene atmosphere. They achieved this through a spa-like colour palette and an intuitive layout that minimizes stress for patients navigating the facility. The wayfinding program encompassed all six floors of the new clinic (Building 2) and extended into the adjoining lobby of the existing clinic (Building 1).
To differentiate treatment floors within Building 2, a colour-coding system was developed using variations of blue and turquoise for each “Care Neighborhood.” This colour scheme, along with lettered signage and directional cues, helped patients easily identify corridors and rooms.
The project wasn’t limited to the new clinic. While the focus was on Building 2, it also included the connecting bridge and the remodelled first-floor lobby of Building 1. The exterior signage program, initially designed for the new clinic, was adapted to integrate seamlessly with Building 1’s unique architecture.
In addition to patient-oriented signage, B+H EXD created a subtle wayfinding system specifically for FHCC’s rapid response team. The completed signage program has been well-received and is expected to serve as a model for future wayfinding strategies and aesthetics across FHCC’s clinics and building renovations.