🧭 From Stone Markers to Smart Maps: The Story of Wayfinding Signs

August 29, 2025

Did you know wayfinding signage has been guiding people for thousands of years? Long before GPS and digital directories, humans relied on signs—etched in stone, painted on walls, or carved into wood—to navigate the world around them.

🏛️ Ancient Origins

The earliest forms of wayfinding can be traced back to ancient civilisations like the Greeks and Romans, who used engraved stone markers and illustrated signs to direct people through bustling cities. These signs weren’t just functional—they were designed to be understood by everyone, including those who couldn’t read, using symbols and imagery to communicate.

🚗 The Rise of Modern Signage

Fast forward to the early 1900s, and the invention of the motorcar sparked a new era of signage. Road signs became essential, and with them came the need for standardised design, legibility, and placement. In the 1960s, architect Kevin Lynch coined the term wayfinding, shifting the focus from just signs to the entire user experience of navigating a space.

🏢 Wayfinding Today

Modern wayfinding is more than just arrows and labels—it’s a blend of design, psychology, and technology. From hospitals and airports to shopping centres and city streets, signage now considers accessibility, cultural context, and even emotional response. Digital kiosks, interactive maps, and mobile apps are becoming the norm, but physical signage still plays a vital role in creating intuitive, welcoming environments.

🌐 Why It Matters

In a world that’s more connected—and complex—than ever, good wayfinding helps people feel confident, safe, and in control. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about creating a seamless experience that reflects the identity of a place and the people who use it.