Design before Design: The wayfinding planning process

Adam Fine is a dynamic planner whose expertise lies in the often-overlooked realm of signage. With an unwavering commitment to enhancing public spaces and rights-of-way, Adam's passion for creating impactful signage solutions has transformed numerous environments. His work extends across a diverse range of projects, from crafting welcoming signs for newcomers to developing comprehensive wayfinding systems for navigating unfamiliar territories. As the Director of Experiential Graphic Design for Fathom Studio, Adam has collaborated on interpretive and wayfinding plans for a wide array of clients, including municipalities, trail groups, Parks Canada, provincial parks departments, and educational institutions. His role as a project manager is characterized by a dedication to excellence, inclusivity, and collaborative problem-solving. Adam understands that effective signage is not merely about providing directions but also about storytelling—whether it's conveying grand narratives or illuminating the subtle nuances of a place. Adam's has a master's degree in urban and regional planning from Dalhousie University, where his research focused on pedestrian mobility and transportation. This academic foundation enriches his practical approach to wayfinding and interpretive planning, ensuring that his solutions are not only aesthetically pleasing but also rooted in empirical evidence and best practices. Beyond his professional endeavors, Adam is a seasoned musician, having spent over two decades honing his skills as a double bassist in the realm of jazz. His experiences as a musician have instilled in him a deep appreciation for creativity, improvisation, and the power of expression—qualities that inform his approach to planning and design. Above all, Adam Fine is driven by a genuine empathy for the end-user, recognizing that successful signage is ultimately about facilitating meaningful connections and enriching experiences within the built environment.