Kvarteret Giraffen

A safe visit

Background

Kvarteret Giraffen is located near downtown Kalmar. New residential areas are being developed nearby, and more and more people are visiting Kvarteret Giraffen without a car. Driving was the natural choice for getting around when the center was built, but times have changed.

The old and inadequate wayfinding system, which was intended solely for drivers, did not offer a welcoming arrival. The traffic situation was unclear and multiple places were traffic hazards. A new and well-planned navigation strategy was needed.

The property owner wanted more people to choose transport methods other than driving, which would be good for the environment, slow down the pace, and create a more pleasant atmosphere. The task was to create a safe traffic environment with consideration for everyone, regardless of mode of transport, and to offer additional safeguards for cyclists and pedestrians.

Solution

Following a site and traffic analysis, we concluded that several locations posed a traffic hazard. One parking lot was overcrowded and drivers needed to be guided to other parking areas.

New pedestrian and bicycle paths were built and walkways were adjusted and updated. Traffic flows were updated, benefiting vulnerable road users.

Welcoming signs were put up on the exteriors. Signs for public transport were put up in the area and on a digital information map. Attractions and amenities were also signposted, showing the proximity to downtown Kalmar.

Parking lots were color coded, and numbered parking zones help visitors find their car. When new charging stations were added for electric cars, signs were needed to find them.

Loading bays were given clear addresses to reduce the number of heavy transports in the area.

The squares are important meeting places and have food trucks, an outdoor seating area and event spaces. The names of the squares and colorful graphics appear on facades and are visible from a distance.

The overall experience was important. Appealing lighting was added to the signs to enhance the pleasant setting. At night, this improves safety and serves as decoration.

A sign manual makes it easy to implement updates and changes as necessary.