The effect of “grid” vs. “star” route design on wayfinding

Wayfinding, the result of cognitive and environmental interactions, has typically been enhanced by emphasizing landmark-based navigation. In contrast, our study explores the effectiveness of reinforcing route-learning strategies for improved wayfinding. We theorized that specific route-target associations would be facilitated by a star-shaped pathway design, where each target is accessed through a single route, compared to a grid-shaped design offering multiple paths. Additionally, considering older adults' reliance on route-learning and their challenges in landmark-based navigation, we hypothesized that the star-shaped design would particularly benefit this population. In a desktop virtual-navigation task involving younger (n=68) and older (n=60) adults, participants underwent two learning sessions to familiarize themselves with a shopping centre environment, followed by two retrieval sessions. To specify the centricity of the starting position in the star design, compared to the grid, we evaluated pathways via space syntax centrality analysis. Results revealed inferior wayfinding performance in older adults, irrespective of design, yet the star-shaped configuration consistently outperformed the grid-shaped design in both age groups. These findings suggest that architectural designs emphasizing route-learning can enhance wayfinding. A subsequent immersive VR study, conducted in a spacious setting, further explores these principles by allowing participants to naturally walk within the virtual environment.