When you think of graphic design, your mind might jump to logos, advertisements, or digital media. But for Ciarán Maldonado, graphic design means breathing life into the spaces we inhabit. As an architectural graphic designer, he specializes in creating environmental graphics that merge storytelling with built environments. From wayfinding systems to large-scale installations, Ciarán’s work is redefining how people experience public spaces.
The Intersection of Architecture and Design
We sat down with Ciarán in his Brooklyn studio to discuss his career and his thoughts on how graphic design can shape our perception of the spaces we move through daily.
Q: How did you find your way into architectural graphic design?
Ciarán: I actually started in traditional graphic design, working on branding and editorial projects. But I’ve always been fascinated by architecture. When I came across a project that combined typography with physical spaces—a wayfinding system for a museum—I was hooked. It felt like such a natural extension of storytelling, but on a grander scale.
Q: Can you explain what architectural graphic design entails?
Ciarán: At its core, it’s about enhancing the functionality and identity of a space through visual elements. That might mean designing signs and maps to help people navigate a hospital or creating a mural that communicates the history of a neighborhood. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about connecting people to the environment in meaningful ways.
Designing with Purpose
Q: Do you have a favorite project?
Ciarán: One that stands out is a wayfinding project I did for a public library in Chicago. The building’s architecture was already stunning, but the interior layout was confusing. My team designed a system that was both functional and reflective of the library’s mission. We used color-coded zones and large, friendly typography to make the space more inviting. Seeing how it transformed the experience for visitors was incredibly rewarding.
Learn how spaces work and how people move through them.
Q: What challenges do you face in your work?
Ciarán: The biggest challenge is balancing creativity with practicality. For example, a design might look fantastic on paper, but when you’re installing it in a busy train station, you have to consider durability, visibility, and even safety regulations. It’s a constant puzzle, but that’s part of what makes it so exciting.
The Future of Environmental Graphics
Q: How do you see this field evolving?
Ciarán: I think we’re going to see even more integration of technology. Augmented reality is starting to play a role in wayfinding and exhibitions, and I’m excited to explore how it can make spaces even more dynamic. At the same time, there’s a growing focus on sustainability, which is pushing designers to think about how materials and production methods impact the environment.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in architectural graphic design?
Ciarán: Start by understanding the basics of both graphic design and architecture. Learn how spaces work and how people move through them. And don’t be afraid to experiment. This field thrives on creativity and interdisciplinary thinking, so the more perspectives you can bring to the table, the better.
A Lasting Impact
As we wrap up our conversation, Ciarán reflects on the impact of his work. “Designing for spaces is about creating experiences,” she says. “When someone feels a sense of ease or wonder in a space I’ve worked on, that’s when I know I’ve done my job.”
In a world that’s increasingly digital, Ciarán’s work reminds us of the importance of the physical—the tangible markers that guide, inform, and inspire us in the environments we share.