Signage, Displays, & Environments

Environmental graphic design is the practice of using graphics, signage, and branded visuals to foster a connection between people and places. That connection can be functional or emotional, ranging from wayfinding and informational graphics to immersive storytelling. A few examples of environmental graphic design include branded murals and supergraphics for corporate offices or communities, directional signage and wayfinding, themed environments, and interactive museum-style graphics. 

Environmental graphic design professionals are experts at applying brand and design fundamentals to physical environments in order to maximize the functionality and enjoyment of those spaces. They help deliver clarity, so people can navigate spaces with ease; they foster connection, conveying a brand or institution’s identity and culture; and they create opportunities for engagement, drawing people into an environment and making the experience meaningful and memorable. 

Environmental graphics can be printed and/or fabricated using a broad range of materials, depending on the environment and application. Our creative and production teams know that the choice of materials is as important as the visuals themselves, and they consider a variety of factors to make that selection, including architectural constraints of the space, whether the graphics are interior, exterior, temporary, or permanent, and how well a given material aligns with the DNA of the client’s brand. Some of the materials commonly used in environmental graphic design include vinyl adhesive, fabric, cut metal, acrylic, and wood, laminates, recycled plastics, paints and protective coatings. We also incorporate lighting, digital projection, and LED screens for immersive multimedia presentations. 

Any industry that has an environment with a human presence can benefit from environmental graphic design. We’re proud to work with a broad range of industry verticals, including national retailers, luxury cosmetics, jewelry, accessories, and fashion brands, sports teams and stadiums, hospitality brands, museums, automotive manufacturers, and Fortune 500 companies across the United States.

Timelines vary based on the size and scope of the project. We will do a thorough and efficient discovery to understand your needs and provide a comprehensive timeline for ideation, execution, and installation. 

To measure the impact of environmental branding, you’ll want to first articulate your goals for the environment. Depending on what your goals are, there are a variety of ways to measure impact—some qualitative, others quantitative. These could include surveys, focus groups, intercepts, and observational studies. Other KPIs include brand perception, event ROI, sales, reviews, ratings, and social media mentions.

Yes! Events, tradeshows, and conferences are prime time for high quality and strategic environmental graphics. Because Phase 3 is a branding agency, print production powerhouse, and branded merchandise company in one, we are an ideal partner for brands and organizations looking to get the most bang for their event or tradeshow buck.