PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Powerhouse Arts is a not-for-profit facility dedicated to art fabrication, collaboration, education, and events. Based in Brooklyn, New York, it has 170,000 square feet of workshop space for artists and makers working in wood, metal, ceramics, textiles, and print.

The Powerhouse was built in 1903 to supply electricity to Brooklyn Rapid Transit. Due to technological changes and new transportation methods, the plant was decommissioned in the 1970s and eventually became a haven for graffiti artists. The existing derelict structure was recently redeveloped to become a center for artists and fabricators.

Our firm developed an interior and exterior signage and wayfinding program that responded building’s unique history and architecture, as well as to its various audiences: staff, makers, visitors, and event-goers.

The building restorations saved as much of the original structure and graffiti as possible. We designed the signage system to make the most of these preservation efforts.The result was signage that matches and accentuates the space’s industrial origin and features. We opted for large-scale, open-channel dimensional letters that frame and reveal the graffiti. The clean forms and minimal color palette complement the stark industrial shapes while contrasting with the graffiti, making wayfinding cues unobtrusive but easy to locate.

PROJECT INFORMATION

Entry Type: Single Entry

Channel: Immersive

Primary Role of the Designer: Designer as brand steward

Client Relationship: A retainer relationship

Intention of the Project: Introduction of a new product, service, or program

Development Budget: Confidential / Not available

Production/Execution Budget: Confidential / Not Available

Source of Funding: Client

Typefaces:

Paper:

Materials: Metal, painted acrylic

CREDIT INFORMATION

Creative Director: Eileen Moore

Art Director:

Designers: Radnyee Joshi

Researchers:

Developers:

Copywriter:

Illustrator:

Photographer: Chris Cooper

Printer:

Producer:

Other Credits: Anna Crider – Partner in Charge, Alyssa Weinstein – Project Director

Return to the Gallery