Creating a distinctive wayfinding scheme for Palacerigg Park

Nestled in the heart of North Lanarkshire, Palacerigg Country Park has transformed from a once bleak upland farm into a thriving natural sanctuary. Spanning more than 300 hectares, it’s home to thousands of native trees and shrubs, creating a diverse habitat where wildlife flourishes. With over 10 kilometres of trails, play areas for children, and open access for visitors, Palacerigg has become a much-loved destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

When North Lanarkshire Council set out to refresh the park’s wayfinding scheme, the goal was clear, to create a signage identity that reflected the park’s character and could evolve with it over time.

View our Signage & wayfinding for Palacerigg Park Project here.

The vision: A wayfinding approach rooted in nature

The Council’s vision was to establish a cohesive and distinctive wayfinding identity that would support Palacerigg’s ongoing development. Each element needed to be versatile enough to adapt as new projects emerged, while maintaining a consistent visual and functional language.

We were delighted to be appointed to design, manufacture, and install the complete signage scheme. From the outset, our focus was on developing a unified system that would help visitors navigate the park easily, while complementing its natural beauty.

Design inspiration

Every successful wayfinding project begins with understanding the place, and Palacerigg offers endless inspiration. The park’s woodland trails, open meadows, and rich wildlife informed our creative direction. We wanted to ensure the scheme felt like a natural extension of its surroundings.

A bold colour palette was developed to capture attention without overpowering the landscape. Natural materials, clean lines, and legible typography became the foundation of our design. We balanced visibility with harmony, ensuring each sign guided visitors intuitively while blending seamlessly into the park’s scenic backdrop.

Our approach reflected key principles of wayfinding, clarity, consistency, and context. Each element was designed to serve a specific purpose, whether guiding, informing, or inspiring exploration.

The wayfinding elements

To bring the scheme to life, we integrated a range of bespoke products tailored to the park’s needs:

1. Perth fingerpost signs (71028)

A contemporary interpretation of a traditional directional sign, the Perth Fingerpost offers elegant simplicity. Crafted in oak, its clean lines and adaptable design provide timeless guidance along paths and entryways.

1. Oxford waymarker posts (71007)

Discreet yet highly effective, the Oxford waymarker post is ideal for intermediate directions along Palacerigg’s 10km trail network. Its understated design complements the environment while keeping walkers on track.

1. Durness tri-boards (71037)

The Durness tri-board’s distinctive triangular construction ensures visibility from every angle, perfect for key entry points and information hubs. Its generous display area accommodates detailed interpretation and orientation materials, making it a focal point for visitors exploring the park.

Together, these elements create a comprehensive wayfinding system that supports both navigation and discovery.

Colour, character, and cohesion

A defining feature of the Palacerigg scheme is its bold colour palette. Each hue was carefully chosen to enhance legibility, complement natural tones, and strengthen the park’s visual identity. The colours not only improve functionality but also evoke warmth and vibrancy, reflecting the welcoming spirit of the park.

By uniting form, material, and colour, the signage scheme achieves the right balance between functional guidance and aesthetic appeal. The result is a cohesive visual language that feels distinctly “Palacerigg”, contemporary, confident, and connected to nature.

Bringing it all together

The finished installation now stands as an integral part of Palacerigg’s visitor experience. Every sign contributes to a sense of welcome, orientation, and curiosity. Whether families are finding their way to the play area or walkers are exploring deeper trails, the signage helps shape a smooth and engaging journey.

Beyond navigation, the scheme reinforces the park’s brand identity, a place that celebrates community, nature, and accessibility. It exemplifies how thoughtful design can transform outdoor environments, connecting people more deeply with the spaces they explore.

Final thoughts

The new wayfinding scheme at Palacerigg Country Park demonstrates the power of purposeful design in enhancing visitor experiences and place identity. What began as an upland farm is now a dynamic, nature-rich destination with a clear and cohesive visual language.

At Hornbeck, we believe effective wayfinding is more than signage,  it’s about connection. By combining design expertise, craftsmanship, and environmental sensitivity, we’ve helped Palacerigg Park continue its story as one of North Lanarkshire’s most inspiring public spaces.

Ready to bring clarity and character to your next project? Get in touch with our team to discuss how we can design a wayfinding solution that reflects your environment and vision.