Strategic Insight
Understanding how people move through the University District was foundational. Cygnus conducted comprehensive circulation studies that accounted for traffic flow, on-street bike lanes, off-street multi-use pathways, green spaces, bus stops, and access to parking. These insights shaped a wayfinding strategy that felt intuitive from every entry point and functional across modes of travel. In parallel, a full signage bylaw review was completed for the site’s various zoning designations. The result was a visual report that aligned signage recommendations with Calgary’s regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance from the outset and laying the groundwork for smooth phased implementation.
Branding a Community
To foster a sense of identity without overwhelming the neighbourhood’s look and feel, simple yellow fin banners were introduced on existing streetlight poles. This subtle visual gesture amplified the district’s brand while minimizing infrastructure additions. Custom street signs and cohesive colour palettes across all signage elements reinforced the sense of a complete, self-contained community.
Parking
From the moment drivers enter the parkade, the experience reinforces the brand and supports a sense of orientation. The strategy was built around one simple but powerful idea: help people understand where they are, where they’re going, and when they’ve arrived. Colour zoning and intuitive navigation guide users seamlessly through the space, whether they’re residents heading home, shoppers visiting retail, or professionals arriving for work. Branded visual cues continue the design language from the street into the parkade, creating a consistent experience that builds trust and ease of movement.
Photography Credit:
Adam Borman
