Graphic Design for Architectural Spaces

Designer Ruedi Baur leads into the course by telling you a bit about himself and showing you some of his most iconic work to give an idea of his approach to design. He also talks about his influence and the people who inspire him, such as architect AG Fronzoni and philosopher Édouard Glissant.

Dive into the theory with an introduction to some basic concepts and find out how a text can fit into a space by seeing it exemplified in an entrance hall mock-up. Then, explore different font options till you find the best one and discover the power letters have to transform the architecture that surrounds them.

Once you've got a grasp on the fundamental concepts, Ruedi explains how graphic designers and architects can work side by side to achieve stunning results and presents you with two examples: a hospital and a parking garage. Take an in-depth look at both to gather ideas and learn how to choose materials, colors, mediums, typography, and lighting. Then, study texts in motion and digital inscriptions using the Cinémathèque Française and the Médiathèque André Malraux as references.

Now it's time to take what you've learned a step further with a case study of the city of Nègrepelisse. Examine how thoughtfully designed signs, placards, and inscription can have a positive effect on the atmosphere of a city, focusing specifically on rewording texts, changing fonts or materials, and considering how citizens are addressed.

Wrap up the course by doing some research on other mediums where the relationship between information and design are as important as the setting of an exhibition, for example. Now it's your turn to decorate a space using inscriptions!