Uncovering the cognitive connections between wayfinding and design elements
Without design cues like colourful signage and strategic commercial matting layouts embedded in our environment, navigating a large building can feel surreal, like moving through a dreamlike, liminal space.
While getting from point A to point B seems like an easy task – for some of us, anyways – we take for granted the incredible brainpower wayfinding takes, forcing us to use a combination of sensory, cognitive, and motor functions.
That’s why interior designers crafting high-traffic areas lean into a concept called strategic visibility, using thoughtfully-placed building elements like attention-attracting colours, accessories, and signage to indicate how to reach a destination.
One study found that in-ground signals were particularly effective at helping people find their way, especially when their attention was divided between walking and using their phone – a common modern phenomenon.
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Because of this, many property owners and managers turn towards companies like Vifloor Canada, to provide commercial matting that guides patrons where they need to go by defining spaces with logos, borders and layouts.
Emblazon entryways with logos
In some ways a building’s entryway is its most important feature, as it can leave an impression on patrons and set the tone for their time there, especially if the person is a visitor who doesn’t frequent the space often.
In addition to protecting floors and masking dirt that may be trekked inside, having a welcome mat that features corporate logos of the building owners or businesses within adds a sense of professionalism and decorum.
Used thoughtfully, commercial matting with a defined border on entrance steps and throughout a foyer can create an inviting flow that inadvertently directs people where they need to go, whether that’s the front desk to check in, to a concourse serving as a meeting point, or towards signage indicating which floor they need to visit.
Cut through transitional spaces with commercial matting
Similarly, commercial matting can be laid to create interior pathways that lead patrons through transitional spaces like elevator lobbies and hallways. Using a lighter-coloured mat with a darker border – or vice versa – creates a contrast that draws the eye, sending a subliminal message to stay the indicated route.
For the same reason, adding matting that stands out from the colour of the flooring underneath establishes a sense of definition to a space, indicating that it has a specific use.
![Adding matting that stands out from the colour of the flooring underneath establishes a sense of definition to a space.]()
Enhance accessibility
The Accessibility Standards of Canada (ASC) is a policy that is constantly evolving to set standards of accessibility for new builds and buildings under renovation. Currently, work is under way to develop 15 new accessibility standards, including specific standards for wayfinding.
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Remember how we referenced using contrasting colours above? When implemented in matting, this design can aid all users – especially those with low vision – with navigating an area by making the route easier to see. The pile and defined edges add a tactile element that can be followed with the use of accessibility aides.
Matting also provides stability underfoot, protecting us all from slips and falls.
![High-visibility hues and deliberately-placed commercial matting]()
Eliminate anxieties with commercial matting
Entering a new space without actually knowing how make it to your destination within can be awkward and stressful, but it doesn’t have to be.
With a few intentional touches, like high-visibility hues and deliberately-placed commercial matting from Vifloor Canada, you can help building visitors get to where they need to go – without even thinking about it.