• Archives of design research
• /
• v.17 no.1
• /
• pp.373-382
• /
• 2004

Large sized buildings have proliferated in the modern world in order to solve problems caused by the growth of cities, and this trend has lead to diversity in style and utilization of interiors. In particular, wayfinding within the shopping mall for a customer is a common problem, so if customers do not have to face these navigational problems and could find the way more easily, then shopping mall or the store can expect much better profits. Therefore, directional sign system that can provide accurate and speedy information for customers with diversified ages, gender and knowledge is necessary. Firstly, the definition and element of all directional sign are analyzed through the existing literature survey. The elements are based on the practical elements and six categories such as type, pictogram, color, layout, form, and location were considered. Secondly, directional signs in large underground shopping mall was considered, and the speciality of the underground shopping mall was investigated, and finally top three underground shopping malls was analyzed. Thirdly, through the questionnaire, an objective appraisal of directional signs and problems was developed, and following possible improvement was suggested. This study has its own limitations since it is only applicable to the specific locations, however, directional designs will be useful in other types of buildings as well. Through the continuous studies of the users' psychology, these kinds of studies will be related to the environmental characteristics of various places.