Placemaking in Commercial Development: Building Destinations that Resonate with Communities
In today’s competitive market, commercial properties must go beyond mere functionality—they must also anticipate and meet visitor needs, foster loyalty, and serve as vibrant community hotspots. Placemaking achieves this by transforming commercial properties into destinations that emotionally resonate with their guests, which often results in greater foot traffic, more return visits, and increased revenue.
By prioritizing local culture, user needs, and environmental context, placemaking evolves from a simple design approach to a people-focused philosophy. Below, we explore three core elements of successful placemaking; the vital role of graphics and signage; and examples of projects that have created thriving, memorable community spaces.
The Elements of Successful Placemaking
Successful placemaking starts with a deep understanding of the environment, the community, and the purpose of the space, focusing in on these three essentials:
1. Local Culture
Every community has its own identity, defined by its history, people, and unique character. Placemaking integrates these elements, allowing spaces to reflect the local culture. This might involve using materials or symbols that are familiar to the community or referencing historical events or notable personalities tied to the area. When people recognize their local culture in a commercial space, it strengthens their connection to it, making the location feel like a natural extension of their community.
For instance, incorporating vintage signage in a historic district creates authenticity, while custom installations, hand-painted tiles, or sculptures by local artists inject a space with a unique cultural identity that encourages visitors to spend time there and even recommend it to others.
2. User Needs
Understanding the needs of diverse user groups is key to creating functional and inclusive spaces. In mixed-use developments, this means designing for residents, workers, shoppers, and tourists alike. Accessibility features such as wide pathways, braille signage, and multilingual wayfinding systems ensure usability for all, while sensory-friendly lighting and quiet zones can accommodate a range of needs.
Kid-friendly features like play areas and family restrooms, combined with comfortable seating, shaded areas, public art, and multifunctional amenities enhance comfort and appeal. Thoughtful placemaking design that truly takes user needs into consideration transforms ordinary spaces into engaging destinations that welcome everyone.
3. Environmental Context
Placemaking is also about respecting and enhancing the natural environment. By incorporating green spaces, preserving existing trees, and using sustainable materials, commercial developments can cultivate a harmonious balance between design and natural elements. Thoughtful integration of nature enhances visual appeal and supports ecological health, creating spaces where people are inspired to linger.
In urban areas with limited greenery, incorporating features like green walls, rooftop gardens, or water fountains can serve as a relaxing retreat to visitors. These elements benefit the local ecosystem while acting as striking focal points that elevate the overall experience, deepening people’s connection to the space and its surroundings.
The Role of Graphics, Signage, and Visual Elements in Creating Unique Identity
Graphics, signage, and other visual elements play a vital role in defining a space’s unique identity. When intentionally designed, they contribute to a cohesive and memorable brand experience.
Signage as a Storytelling Tool
Signage in placemaking is a powerful tool for storytelling that guides visitors while enhancing their experience. Rather than simply serving as functional markers, signs can evoke emotions and tell a narrative through design choices like color, typography, and materials. By integrating these design elements, signage reinforces the brand’s voice and makes navigation intuitive and engaging. For instance, in a waterfront retail area, signage could feature nautical themes, incorporating ocean-inspired colors and textures that reflect the local surroundings.
In retail or entertainment areas, signage can create a sense of anticipation by incorporating design elements that hint at the stories or experiences to be discovered. Interactive elements, like QR codes that link to stories or augmented reality features can further immerse visitors in the narrative of the space.
By blending form and function, signage becomes more than a wayfinding tool—it is a vehicle for storytelling that enriches the visitor’s journey through the space. Each sign, from informational displays to store directories, can contribute to this experience, creating a sense of place that feels cohesive and intentional.
Environmental Graphics as Emotional Connections
Environmental graphics—like murals, sculptural installations, and digital displays—add depth and meaning, making them feel emotionally resonant. A mural depicting local history or culture becomes more than just artwork. It becomes a landmark that visitors associate with the location, sparking conversations, creating photo opportunities, and fostering a sense of belonging. Such elements encourage interaction, helping visitors engage more deeply with the space while fostering a sense of belonging in the community.
Creating Spaces that Are Instantly Recognizable
Branding is critical in placemaking because it establishes a space’s unique identity. Through careful selection of colors, typography, and materials, Creative Sign Designs ensures that each project reflects its purpose and location. By establishing a consistent visual language, we help build a sense of familiarity and loyalty among visitors.
For example, in a multi-use complex, we might establish a consistent color palette, font style, and material choices across all signs, seating, and lighting fixtures. This cohesion creates a unified feeling, while still offering a distinct, recognizable aesthetic. Over time, visitors will come to associate these design elements with the space, creating a memorable brand that sets it apart from others.
The Benefits of Placemaking for Commercial Developers
For commercial developers, investing in placemaking adds significant value to a property. According to a study by the University of Cincinnati’s School of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning and the Economics Center, approximately 60% of those surveyed reported a 12% increase in revenue after installing a new sign. When a space resonates with people on an emotional level, it becomes more than just a place to shop or work—it becomes a destination.
Here are key benefits of placemaking:
- Higher Foot Traffic: Memorable and engaging spaces naturally attract more visitors, driving foot traffic and increasing revenue.
- Increased Loyalty: When visitors feel connected to a space, they are more likely to return, boosting tenant success and long-term profitability.
- Community Engagement: Placemaking fosters a sense of pride and community connection, making the property a gathering place and a source of local pride.
- Brand Value: A well-crafted sense of place strengthens the property’s brand identity, differentiating it from competitors and adding long-term value for both developers and tenants.
Placemaking with EGD Studio and CSD
At its core, placemaking is about creating spaces that resonate with people, foster a sense of connection and pride, and encourage repeat visits. By embracing local culture, addressing the needs of diverse users, and respecting the environment, placemaking transforms commercial properties into beloved community destinations. Visual elements like signage and graphics play a key role in reinforcing the space’s identity and creating an environment that people enjoy and remember.
For commercial developers, investing in placemaking can elevate a property into a thriving hub that benefits both the community and the business. Ready to take your commercial project to the next level? Let us help you design an environment that is not only functional, but also memorable and meaningful. Together, we can create spaces that stand out, foster connections, and enrich the communities they serve.
