From Signage to Relational Infrastructure: a situated taxonomy for environmental Graphic Design in Hybrid Spaces

This contribution redefines the role of Environmental Graph- ic Design (EGD) in light of the evolving nature of hybrid urban spaces, shaped by participatory processes, collective narratives, and informal regeneration practices. Moving beyond conventional notions of signage as merely informational, the study concep-tualises EGD as a relational infrastructure – a design tool that connects physical space, social actors, and urban imagination. Adopting a qualitative and comparative methodology based on six international and national case studies, the research develops a typological framework comprising six categories: wayfinding, narrative, participatory, interactive, critical, and temporary signs. The analysis highlights the potential of graphic signs to enhance urban livability, stimulate social engagement, and convey sym-bolic meaning. Introducing the concept of inhabited graphics as both a design perspective and a critical stance, the contribution provides theoretical and practical tools to support the develop-ment of contextual, inclusive, and relational graphic interventions. Ultimately, it contributes to the reinforcement of the civic and cultural dimensions of contemporary urban space.