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School of Kinesiology Environmental Branding

A Case Study

With the opening of the new School of Kinesiology building in fall 2021, the need arose for distinct, engaging and meaningful environmental design. Recognizing the importance of visual identity in embodying a school’s purpose, the School of Kinesiology aimed to transform their new space by integrating custom wall and framed graphics into their office suites. Leveraging their new branding and relationship with Michigan Creative, the school set out to create a dynamic visual narrative that captured their academic mission.

Kinesiology's new signage

Take It to the Next Level: School of Kinesiology Redefines Its Visual Identity

The project encompassed designing and implementing customized wall and window graphics and framed imagery that encapsulate the vibrancy and diversity of the School of Kinesiology’s disciplines. The process involved extensive collaboration between the school and Michigan Creative to ensure each suite’s graphics package was not only visually compelling but also directly aligned with the school’s strategic vision. The initiative focused primarily on four priority areas: the Office of Undergraduate Student Affairs (OUSA), the Dean’s Suite, three Health Sciences Suites and the Sport Management Suite. Each suite required a unique mix of materials and applications to reflect its specific function and ethos.

Challenge

The primary challenge lay in crafting a cohesive visual experience across multiple spaces with varying functions and audiences while adhering to the university’s and the school’s branding guidelines. Each suite demanded a tailored design approach to authentically represent its purpose—ranging from equipping the Office of Undergraduate Student Affairs to inspire both current and prospective students, to furnishing the Dean’s Suite with a sense of leadership and innovation.

Outcome

Through strategic planning and innovative design, the School of Kinesiology successfully enhanced its new facility’s visual appeal, creating an environment that reflects its commitment to excellence and forward-thinking—a case study in the transformative power of strategic graphic design in academic spaces.

Project Goals

Create a distinctive visual identity that clearly communicates the School of Kinesiology’s values and mission.
Utilize state-of-the-art materials and design techniques to fashion an inspiring academic atmosphere conducive to learning and collaboration.
Tailor graphics to reflect the unique function and spirit of each office suite, ensuring a harmonious and purpose-driven environment.
Foster a collaborative design process that incorporates feedback and ideas from various stakeholders, heightening the project's creativity and impact.
Coordinate effectively with the U-M Sign Shop to seamlessly handle the specification, production and installation phases, ensuring timely project completion.
Elevator with Kinesiology's new signage
Athlete looks over her shoulder
Kinesiology's new signage
Sports Management
Take it to the next level