Borough Yards in Southwark, London, was transformed from derelict railway arches and forgotten streets into a range of spaces to work, shop, socialise, and soak up culture. F.r.a. was appointed to design the wayfinding and placemaking, in collaboration with developers Mark and architects SPPARC.

The studio created a ‘wanderfinding’ concept to encourage non-linear discovery. The five entrances have their own branding and were designed to create a seamless transition between Borough Yards and the surrounding neighbourhoods.

F.r.a. wanted the wayfinding system to be enjoyable for first-time visitors but also regulars who might not need practical signage anymore. The studio decided on a large neon art piece and a clock dedicated to historic figures associated with Southwark, which changes every five minutes. Other design interventions include gargoyles made from existing industrial brackets, a sign featuring a human tooth, and a playful approach to bicycle racks.

Credits:
Mark: Borough Yards
Category: Wayfinding
Entrant: f.r.a., Wesley Meyer, Jamie Trippier
Design Studio: f.r.a.
Architect: SPPARC
Development Managers: Queensberry