matali crasset: signage for abbaye royale fontevraud

signage matali crasset designed for abbaye de fontevraud in france all photos by benoît cattiaux, courtesy of matali crasset

following her project of chandeliers for the cathedral of saint bénigne in dijon, france, french designer matali crasset has now developed the way finding and signage for another historic monument, the abbaye de fontevraud.

the signs are simple in their appearance and add a splash of color throughout the historic site

drawing on this idea of losing one’s way and finding it again, crasset has designed the new signs as a network of lines, whether visible or invisible, that outline the various paths that visitors can take throughout the historic site. this concept of lines and beams separate and come together again, like extensions, information, directions which are practical and amusing within the context in which they are installed. these range of elements suggest staging the walk and visit, guiding the visitor to follow some directions more than others, or providing opportunities take the time to stop, read or look for specific information.

the idea of this new wayfinding system was to develop signage that though an essential device, was not invasive. it is mean to act like a dotted line that moves around the site, settling on the buildings and emphasizing the outlines of the passages between different areas.

sign variations

sign variations

sign variations

in context

each sign follows the same linear form

information / welcome centre, ticket office and boutique

up close

installation of signage

chairs installed for visitors to rest and enjoy the surrounding landscape of the abbey

crasset has also designed some furniture and lighting pieces which can be found throughout.

crasset’s lighting design recalls the lines of the signage