Our process began with in-depth discussions with DMD and Canal stakeholders to determine the key attributes and qualities the new brand identity should communicate. We drew inspiration from the corridor’s openness and linear form, emphasizing the flow of water from the White River through this channel.
The visual mark and “Canal blue” signage offers a striking contrast in the built-environment. The new logo also appears on orientation maps designed by our team, providing clear information on accessible entry and exit points, pedestrian bridges, landmarks, and nearby destinations.
Our first engagement with the Downtown Canal Walk began two decades ago, and our contributions are still evident along the Canal today. Following the expansion of the Canal Walk to White River State Park in 1997, we created the initial branding and orientation maps to help guide visitors through this new cultural district. The Neo-classical street name signage on the bridges and the mile markers embedded in the pavement reflect our work from those early years.
Our discovery assessment revealed that a major challenge for visitors was finding the closest entry and exit points along the Canal to reach their intended destinations, as some sections pass beneath bridges and are not visible from street level. Although multiple concrete stairways connect the street to the Canal, accessible ramps and public elevators are inconsistently placed. To address this, our team conducted a thorough site analysis and developed a strategic wayfinding system. This system is designed to guide visitors toward amenities and destinations at critical decision points, blending naturally with the surrounding environment.
