Dun Laoghaire Harbour Trail

The Dun Laoghaire Harbour Trail highlights the key features along this structure of national and international importance. I designed the trail, which resulted in a selection of site-specific signage located along the seafront and East Pier. The designs were inspired by the significant amount of decorative and functional ironwork in the harbour. 

Each location is represented by a pictogram which is laser cut from steel, a nod to the ornate Victorian railings while exposing the stonework of the pier. Mindful of the natural beauty of this conservations site, I kept signage sizes to a minimum, they aim to caption the features rather than distract from them. Where possible I used an infographic approach to reduce the amount of copy required.

The start of the trail is marked with a mural of the historic Pavilion painted on the side of the Tourist Information kiosk. An area with two benches, between the East Pier and the newly refurbished baths, was named Pioneer Point and highlights the lives of local trailblazers. To avoid blocking the sea views with signage I proposed a typographic treatment embedded in concrete slabs.

To withstand the saline environment, the signs are made from steel, marine-grade powder coat and an anti-graffiti lacquer. The graphics are screen printed with white and metallic silver inks. I was responsible for sourcing and managing the prototyping, fabrication and installation stages of the project. I worked closely with DMW Creative, DLR County Council, Parks Department and the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company to bring the Harbour Trail to life.