Bitesize Wildlife is a way-finding and place-making proposal for the New York Aquarium, which inherently functions in two equally crucial levels. The research that the Wildlife Conservation Society conducts to preserve the wildlife becomes a base, and how the Aquarium transforms the extensive research into family-friendly bite-size information becomes the approach. The proposed design system celebrates the dichotomy between the study and the audience.
The WCS logo becomes the foundation of a new design language that is combined with visitor-centric exciting colors. Glossy bright textures layer upon rough and textured sea colors. Dramatic animal images pair up with photos of the Wildlife Conservation Society researchers. Contrasts and layering on the third dimension essentially create a way-finding and place-making system that celebrates the core principle of the New York Aquarium.
The goals of the project, determined with the client: To create way–finding and place–making design packages for the exterior entry area and the ticketing experience; to deliver a proposal for an on–site contribution kiosk; to take into consideration the visitor experience flow within the pathway; to expand the visitor experience via new programming; to create awareness on the Wildlife Conservation Society.
Two versions are created with different color combinations, all selected from the existing color scheme of the Aquarium. A shiny material always accompanies a rough texture, to symbolize the dichotomy.
The images are chosen carefully for each sign type. A picture of a sea creature is always paired with a scientist or a researcher from Wildlife Conservation Society, to express the dual nature of the Aquarium.
The new donation system uses familiarity and empathy as ways to increase donations. Introduction to particular animals begins as the visitors are introduced via big directional signs. Once the guests are introduced and get in line for tickets, they virtually engage with the animals via the photobooths in the area. Once they are inside, they see the same animals on the donation signs. Since the visitors are invested at this point, they are more likely to donate to WCS.