New Parliament of India

WAYFINDING STRATEGY + SIGNAGE SYSTEM + TECHNICAL DETAILING + SUPERVISION & QC + TYPEFACE CUSTOMIZATION

Proudly Designing for India’s Future:
Building a signage system that accentuates the glory and prestige of the New Parliament House

The new Parliament building is the crown jewel of the redevelopment of Central Vista which includes Kartavya Path and Central Secretariat, among a host of other buildings that consolidate the country's central administration. It is our privilege to augment and heighten the seat of Indian governance with our commitment to excellence, by designing the wayfinding and signage system for this building complex.

The Wayfinding & Signage scheme for the entire project stemmed from a comprehensive approach that led to the development of multiple sign families to cater to different typologies of buildings. The challenge we faced with the Parliament building was to conceive a method to make it stand apart from the rest of the complex. Exclusively tailored for this project, the incorporation of letter cut signages embellishes the structure with stature, distinguishes it, and adds significantly to its unique identity and visual impact.

Entrance Hall, New Parliament House

The building’s architectural elements bring forth and showcase the country’s cultural and civilizational history. Representing different aspects of India’s heritage, six animal sculptures guard the six entrances to the building. The Gaja symbolizes wisdom and wealth, the Ashva represents power and endurance, the Garuda stands for aspiration and progress, the Shardula represents strength and grace, the Hamsa symbolizes discernment and self-realization, and the Makara symbolizes unity in diversity.

A Visionary Touch

The use of solid brass makes the Parliament’s signage system stand out. Our search for a natural material that beautifully complements the warmth of wooden tones and the grandeur of carpeted surfaces in the building’s interiors, designed by HCP, led us to brass. The choice was not merely aesthetic; it is a symbolic representation of the strength, resilience, and the enduring nature of the democratic principles upheld within the hallowed walls of the Parliament. The bevel is another defining feature of the design. Present in different forms across the sign family, it brings a sense of timelessness, and fosters an environment that is inviting and resonant with tradition.

Unveiling Opulence

The journey to arrive at the right detail, material, and finish,
to add to the magnificence of the New Parliament House

ASHOKA TPTQ BECOMES ASHOKA TPTQ [B]*

B indicates Beveled

The three-dimensional lettering, based on Ashoka TPTQ, a custom font designed by Peter Biľak of Typotheque for the entire project, serves as a visual signature. We strived to develop and make the signage not just informative but integral to the building’s architecture. This bespoke approach adds an extra layer of significance and exclusivity. It underlines the importance of spaces like Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, letting the words stand out as symbols of eminence within the realm of governance.

Signifying the peaks and troughs, the challenges and triumphs inherent in the democratic process, the ridge is a thoughtful detail on the bevel that carries symbolic weight.

The second sign type consists of matte brass-finished panels with content in etched black infill. Its dignified look is a manifestation of profound respect for tradition, the pursuit of excellence, and our unwavering commitment to creating a space that encapsulates the essence of democracy.

There are three types of bevel details across the entire sign family, each representing a specific sign type. The carved edges exemplify meticulous attention to detail that define our philosophy and approach towards this project.

Elegance Engraved

In a meticulous blend of form and function, debossed details etched into aluminium add an extra layer of sophistication. It is a celebration of craftsmanship that pays homage to the artistry woven into the fabric of Central Vista Avenue. These signages mirror the design language of the posts to establish visual continuity. They connect the Parliament House seamlessly with its surroundings and contribute to the holistic beauty of the architectural ensemble.

All Sign Families

The complete sign family consists of Directional, Identification, Information, and Regulatory sign types with varied mounting typologies

Ensuring Universal Accessibility

The entire wayfinding system is bilingual and augmented with Braille panels placed at a height that affords comfortable access to both standing and wheelchair users. The integration of Braille is not merely a legal requirement; it is a symbol of inclusivity and respect for diversity. By making essential information accessible to those with visual impairments, we aspire to break down barriers and foster an environment where every citizen can actively and equitably participate in the democratic discourse.

The grandeur of the center beveled letters, the timeless elegance of the solid brass panels, the innovative post-mounted signs that echo the visual language along Kartavya Path: every design choice has been a deliberate step towards creating a space that not only meets the functional requirements of a parliamentary institution but also embodies the values, aspirations, and rich history that it represents. May the New Parliament House stand tall as a testament to our commitment to democracy and innovation.

Team

Akanksha Sinha

Spatial Experience Designer

Aditi Lunia

Spatial Experience Designer

Kashika Kharbanda

Industrial Designer

Tulika Shrivastava

Architect

Nishtha Sharma

Graphic Designer

Prabhjot Kaur