The Provostry of St. Gerold lies on a small plateau on the southern slope of the Walsertal and is rooted in the Benedictine heritage. Over the past 1,000 years, the original hermitage has grown into a multifaceted architectural ensemble. In recent decades it has been expanded and revitalized with high quality standards and careful guidance by HK-Architekten. The now complex structure and the sometimes high number of visitors require a wayfinding system for basic orientation.Atelier Andrea Gassner created a rather restrained signage concept, fully aware that the key lies not in visual loudness but in appropriateness, recognizability, and logical placement within the cartography of paths and decision points. A core element of orientation is the archway that marks the main entrance in a welcoming way, along with a stele placed in the center of the courtyard directing visitors to various locations and offerings.The cross – as the central symbol of Christianity – forms the constructive base module for steles, posts, and wall elements. The legendary Provostry emblem – a delicate, linear abstraction of a mythical creature – served as the basis for the graphic design of the pictograms. These fulfill the important task of providing memorable, language-neutral communication.The designations are typeset in a contemporary serif typeface. The materials and color palette integrate with the architectural culture of the provostry: aluminum blocks, steel constructions, and anthracite and silver-colored surfaces. Beyond all pragmatic functions, the aim of this signage intervention is to inform quietly and helpfully while fostering identification with this special place.
