Penn State’s University Park campus exemplified many large academic environments: While carefully planned and well-maintained, the campus had grown to the point that wayfinding was becoming difficult.

Penn State asked Corbin to develop a Wayfinding Master Plan that would capitalize on the university’s identity program, present a timeless aesthetic, respect the architectural character of the various areas of the campus, and support the many “businesses” of the University.

After analyzing existing conditions and circulation patterns, Corbin recommended a series of sign types to support wayfinding, including trailblazers, boundary markers, vehicular signage supporting wayfinding to 30 top traffic-generating destinations and three public parking decks, and pedestrian signage supporting wayfinding to all campus destinations using variations of the campus map. Maps in the parking decks depict the entire campus, while maps located across the campus depict the “local neighborhood” and offer directions to top destinations farther away.

Corbin also developed an interior wayfinding system for the crown jewels of Penn State’s library system, Pattee Library and Paterno Library, to guide students and researchers through the libraries’ 490,000 square feet of space. The system uses oak trim and veneers that match library furniture and interior finishes. A custom ring sign identifying the circulation desk is suspended from the vaulted ceiling by aircraft cables.