Easy to Swap.
Vinayak Syam
London, United Kingdom
When Wave is a Function.
Pun Intended***
A Form Study
3 Days / Case Study
Dream Deadline Works
Scope
This short visual case study emerged from a quick work assignment at F.r.a involving the drafting of a CAD model for a signage piece that required organic textures. While the task itself was technical, it sparked a deeper exploration into how elements of form—such as colour, texture, and line—can shape the semiotic language of an object. The study served as an opportunity to reflect on the expressive potential of form beyond function, and how subtle design choices can influence perception and meaning.
PICTO
GRAMMING
The pictogram's were designed as a flexible base form, easily tweaked to suggest male or female through minimal shape changes. This subtle modulation shows how small shifts in form can carry distinct meanings, reinforcing the project’s focus on semiotics and visual perception.
🧠 Gestalt Principle's
Our brains seek harmony—when a wave-like crest aligns with the accessibility symbol, it feels intentional, balanced, and subtly emphasizes its importance.
❤️ Emotional Resonance
The crest beneath the icon acts like a supportive element, subtly uplifting the symbol and subconsciously evoking the sense of dignity, care, and inclusion.
⚖️ Visual Balance
Morover, Wave crest creates a natural rhythm and peak right where the design’s narrative “ends”—on the accessible symbol.This creates a sense of resolution and completeness, like the design leads up to that point.ity, care, and inclusion.
The wave crest subtly draws attention to the accessible icon, which subconsciously tells us this part is important and cared for. It creates visual harmony, emotional resonance, and symbolic uplift—all aligning with values we associate with accessibility.
