Understanding the Space
Working within a paediatric walk-in centre is very different to most environments.
Delivered by Signs Express Exeter, this project focused on a local hospital used every day by children and families, often during stressful or uncertain moments. That made the look and feel of the space particularly important.
The existing wayfinding and triage areas were functional, but they lacked warmth. The aim was to introduce more colour and character while keeping everything clear, professional and easy to follow.
In a children’s healthcare setting, signage has to do more than guide people through a space. It should also help them feel reassured.
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Working on site
As with most hospital-based projects, timing and coordination were key.
The work had to be carefully scheduled around other contractors and ongoing activity within the department. In some cases, that meant working within quite tight timeframes to keep everything moving without disrupting day-to-day operations.
It wasn’t anything out of the ordinary, but it did need careful planning.
Developing the solution
To meet the brief, we recommended the use of printed wallpapers.
This approach allowed for much more flexibility across the layout, particularly in areas where traditional signage might have felt limited. It also made it easier to introduce colour and visual interest in a way that felt part of the space, rather than something added afterwards.
At the same time, the materials needed to meet healthcare standards. The wallpapers selected were suitable for regular cleaning, ensuring they remained practical as well as visually effective.
Materials used
All graphics were produced using in-house printed wallpapers, giving full control over quality, consistency and finish across the project.
This also allowed designs to be adapted easily to suit different areas within the department, without losing continuity.
Project delivery
Signs Express Exeter managed the project end-to-end, from supporting the technical design through to in-house production and final installation on site.
Working alongside other contractors meant timings had to stay aligned, particularly given the tight schedule. Some areas required more coordination than others, but overall, the process remained steady and well-managed.
Clear communication throughout helped keep everything on track.
The result
The completed space feels noticeably different.
Wayfinding is still clear and easy to follow, but the environment now has more warmth and character. The addition of colour helps soften what can often feel like a clinical setting, particularly in areas used by children and families.
It’s not a dramatic change, but it doesn’t need to be.
Our thoughts
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“It’s great to be able to bring a bit of distraction and joy to the children’s A&E department. It will be admired by many along the way.” - Signs Express Exeter
Why this project stood out
Being able to deliver this project locally made it particularly meaningful for the team at Signs Express Exeter.
It’s a space that serves the community every day, and one that many people will pass through at some point. Knowing the work will be seen and used by so many people gives it a different level of importance.
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