What Works in School Corridor Graphics

Large, Readable Typography

Large, readable typography works well in corridors because pupils need to understand key messages while walking past, not standing still.

Strong Colour Contrast

Strong colour contrast works well in corridors because it improves readability at a distance and keeps key information clear in busy, fast-moving spaces.

Durable Vinyl and Laminate Selection

Durable vinyl and laminate selection works well in corridors because high-traffic walls need materials that resist scuffs, cleaning, and daily wear.

Clear Spacing and Visual Breathing Room

Clear spacing and visual breathing room work well in corridors because uncluttered layouts reduce overload and keep movement calm and focused.

Intentional Zoning

Intentional zoning works well in corridors because it creates structure, reduces visual chaos, and helps pupils quickly understand the purpose of each area.

Professional Installation with Clean Finishes

Professional installation with clean finishes works well in corridors because seamless alignment and tidy edges maintain high standards in busy, visible spaces.

What Doesn't Work In Corridors

Small Text That Cannot Be Read from A Distance

Small text that cannot be read from a distance doesn’t work in corridors because pupils won’t stop to read it, reducing impact and clarity.

Inconsistent Design Styles Across Sections

Inconsistent design styles across sections don’t work in corridors because they create visual confusion and weaken the sense of structure and standards.

Poor Alignment Across Long Runs

Poor alignment across long runs doesn’t work in corridors because visible joins and uneven panels make large spaces look untidy and lower perceived standards.

Overcrowded Walls with Excessive Detail

Overcrowded walls with excessive detail don’t work in corridors because too much information creates visual noise and reduces clarity in fast-moving spaces.

Low Grade Materials in High traffic Areas

Low-grade materials in high-traffic areas don’t work in corridors because they scuff, peel, and deteriorate quickly under daily use.

Random Posters Layered Over Time

Random posters layered over time don’t work in corridors because they create clutter, reduce visual consistency, and weaken the overall impact of the space.

Where Corridor Graphics Have the Biggest Impact

Main Entrance Corridors

Main entrance corridors have the biggest impact because they create the first impression of standards, culture and expectations for both pupils and visitors.

Stairwells

Stairwells have the biggest impact because they are high-traffic transition points where behaviour and movement are most visible.

Areas Outside Key Departments

Areas outside key departments have the biggest impact because they reinforce subject identity right before pupils enter learning spaces.

Long Subject Corridors

Long subject corridors have the biggest impact because repeated daily exposure reinforces subject identity and key knowledge.

High Traffic Pinch Points

High-traffic pinch points have the biggest impact because they are areas where congestion builds and behaviour can escalate quickly.

Linking Corridors Between Buildings

Linking corridors between buildings have the biggest impact because they shape behaviour and movement during less structured transitions across the site.

What School's Often Overlook

Viewing Distance Affects Readability

Viewing distance affects readability, yet schools often overlook it — text that looks clear up close can become unreadable when pupils are walking past in a corridor.

Doors, Radiators and Sockets Interrupt Layouts

Doors, radiators and sockets interrupt layouts, yet schools often overlook them — these obstacles can break alignment and disrupt the overall flow of a corridor design.

Term-Time Intsall Windows Are Tight

Term-time install windows are tight, yet schools often overlook it — limited access hours can affect planning, labour time and overall finish quality.

Lighting Changes Colour Perception

Lighting changes colour perception, yet schools often overlook it — colours can look very different under corridor lighting, affecting contrast and readability.

Cleaning Regimes Affect Material Choice

Cleaning regimes affect material choice, yet schools often overlook it — frequent wiping and disinfecting can damage lower-grade vinyl over time.

Wall Condition Impacts Final Finish

Wall condition impacts final finish, yet schools often overlook it — uneven, dusty or damaged surfaces can affect adhesion and long-term appearance.