Spa Signage & Wayfinding

A Complex Problem

Designing wayfinding for a world-class destination spa required more than signage. It required a universal language. Located in Reykjavík, Iceland, Sky Lagoon welcomes visitors from around the world with different languages, cultures, and expectations. The challenge was to guide guests through the space and multi-step ritual experience without relying on written communication. The project also required international coordination, with the client based in Iceland and Hi Signs operating from Edmonton, managing time zones and currencies across ISK, USD, and CAD.
 

A Simple Solution

Icons and pictograms became the primary language of navigation, allowing guests to move through the facility regardless of spoken language. Exterior signage used locally sourced Icelandic timber with flame-treated finishes for durability in the coastal environment while maintaining a natural aesthetic. Interior elements introduced softer materials, including cloth applications, to communicate the spa ritual in a tactile way. Hi Signs led the design and project management of the program, coordinating local manufacturing partners and contractors to ensure the final product aligned with the design intent.
 

The Result

The completed interior and exterior wayfinding program integrates seamlessly with Sky Lagoon’s architecture and guest experience. Visitors are guided effortlessly through the space using intuitive visual cues, enhancing both flow and enjoyment of the spa ritual. The result is a signage program that feels understated yet essential—supporting a world-class destination while reinforcing the calm, immersive atmosphere that defines Sky Lagoon.