Step to it with Prudential
Stairwells are often overlooked, seen as purely functional spaces meant to move people from one level to another. Yet, they are one of the few shared environments encountered daily, presenting an opportunity to shape both movement and experience.
Rehla Design collaborated with Graphite Studio to explore how these transitional spaces could be reimagined not just as passageways for Prudential Singapore, but as environments that encourage movement, curiosity, and engagement. We were tasked with designing environmental graphics for a double-stacked fire stair core connecting Prudential office floors across Levels 9, 10 and 11.
DESIGNING FOR MOVEMENT AND DISCOVERY
Unlike static spaces, staircases are experienced in motion. Each turn and landing reveals a new perspective. The design approach focused on creating a visual journey that guides users through a series of moments. Directional elements, layered forms, and visual continuity were used to subtly lead the eye forward and upward, reinforcing the act of movement.
A JOURNEY ROOTED IN NATURE
Drawing inspiration from tropical landscapes and local biodiversity, the visuals introduce a range of flora and fauna across different floors. From a lush jungle understory to dense mangroves, followed by hilltops and plateaus, each scene reflects themes from Singapore’s biodiverse environment in the Labrador Park area. The use of bold colours and simplified forms ensures the graphics remain engaging in a corporate setting.
DETAILS WITHIN THE JOURNEY
Beyond the larger scenes, smaller details were thoughtfully embedded throughout the stairwell reflecting familiar elements of Singapore’s flora and fauna. These moments are designed to be discovered gradually, adding depth and character to the overall experience.
Native Wildlife
Selected species such as birds, otters, reptiles and waterfowl reflect Singapore’s local biodiversity from parklands to waterways. These familiar sightings ground the visuals in a recognisable, everyday context.Tropical Birds
Vibrant birds such as toucans and parrots introduce colour and energy into the space, drawing attention and creating visual highlights along the journey.Local Wildlife
Animals like otters reference Singapore’s urban biodiversity — a reminder of how nature continues to coexist within the city.Layered Greenery
Native-inspired plants and foliage provide continuity across floors, creating a cohesive visual language that ties the journey together.
MESSAGES THAT MOVE WITH YOU
Short, intentional phrases were integrated into the space to reinforce the journey:
Navigate with purpose
Sail beyond horizons
Embrace the journey
Positioned along natural sightlines, these messages appear at key moments within the stairwell to promote active wellness. Designed to be simple and direct, they complement the visuals without overwhelming the environment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR WORK FOR PRUDENTIAL SINGAPORE
Rehla Design collaborated with Graphite Studio to develop themed wayfinding and environmental graphic design for Prudential Singapore. Located at Labrador Tower, the four office floors cater to staff from Prudential Assurance Company Singapore and Prudential Services Singapore, spanning over 150,000 square feet in total.
The design concept was rooted in nature‑based themes, with each floor expressing a distinct identity through custom glass decals and branded supergraphics. These visual elements were carefully curated to create a sense of place, while also embedding subtle navigational cues that guide employees and visitors through the space. The underlying inspiration came from Prudential’s core principle, “Our customer is our compass,” which informed the directional logic and reinforced the brand’s values in a tangible, spatial manner.
A key highlight of the project was the double‑stacked stair core, which became a central feature for vertical circulation and collaboration. Striking supergraphics were applied across this core, transforming it into both a navigational anchor and a symbolic hub for connectivity. To further support orientation, axonometric maps were introduced, providing clear visual references that encourage movement and interaction across the floors.
Materiality played an important role in the wayfinding suite. Timber directional and identification signs were programmed throughout the office, chosen for their warmth and ability to harmonize with the architectural finishes. Subtle touches of Prudential’s signature red were incorporated through painted returns, ensuring brand consistency while maintaining a refined aesthetic.
Together, these elements created a workplace that is not only functional but also immersive, weaving brand storytelling into everyday navigation. The result is a cohesive design system that celebrates Prudential’s values, enhances user experience, and transforms the office into a dynamic environment where employees feel connected, inspired, and guided by design.
Ambient Photography Copyright of Graphite Studio and Photographer Owen Raggett.