Akash Manna
I’m a wayfinding designer with an education in Architecture, who loves turning big ideas into bold, memorable identities. With a knack for storytelling and a sharp eye for detail, I blend creativity and strategy to craft brands that not only look great but make sense. From shaping the big picture to fine-tuning the smallest touchpoint, I help brands show up with clarity, confidence, and a little spark.
Projects I have been part of
GMR Flight Information Design Strategy
About the project
The GMR Bhogapuram International Airport, officially named Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport, is a greenfield airport under construction in Bhogapuram, Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL), the project aims to enhance regional connectivity and support economic growth in North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha.
Role: Wayfinding, Branding, EGD
Developed comprehensive wayfinding design & branding concepts tailored to passenger flow and airport identity.
Documented schematic designs and created a detailed Design Basis Report (DBR).
Coordinated with architectural teams using Revit models to ensure integrated and cohesive design.
Prepared signage models and developed branding guidelines to create a consistent visual language for the airport.
Created icon systems and design systems aligned with GMR’s brand vision.
Produced high-quality presentations and VR renders to facilitate quick design reviews and decision-making.
Adani Lucknow Airport (Expantion)
Key Responsibilities:
Wayfinding Design Development:
Conceptualized and developed comprehensive wayfinding strategies tailored to the unique layout and passenger flow.
Ensured designs facilitated intuitive navigation, enhancing overall passenger experience.
Documentation and Coordination:
Prepared detailed schematic designs and Design Basis Reports (DBRs) to guide implementation.
Collaborated closely with architectural teams using Revit models to ensure seamless integration of wayfinding elements within the terminal's infrastructure.
Brand Identity and Guidelines:
Established comprehensive branding guidelines, ensuring consistency across all visual communications within the airport.
Developed a distinct identity for the airport that harmoniously blends modernity with traditional aesthetics.
Visualization and Presentation:
Created high-quality presentations and Virtual Reality (VR) renders to effectively communicate design concepts to stakeholders, facilitating prompt feedback and approvals.(timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and Estimations:
Compiled detailed BOQs and cost estimations for all wayfinding components, supporting efficient budgeting and procurement processes.
Position: BIM Wayfinding Architect
Organization: Version Absolute Design Studio
Project Duration: 2023–2025
Position: BIM Manager
Organization: Version Absolute Design Studio
Project Duration: 2024–2025
About the project
Lucknow's Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport is undergoing a significant expansion to increase its passenger handling capacity and modernize its infrastructure. The expansion includes the development of a new Terminal 4 (T4) and a runway extension, with a final goal of reaching 38 million passengers per annum
Key Responsibilities:
Concept Development:
Created intuitive wayfinding design concepts for the airport’s terminals and concourses, ensuring seamless navigation for domestic and international passengers.
Developed comprehensive schematic designs and a detailed Design Basis Report (DBR) tailored to TRV’s unique passenger flow patterns and spatial layout.
Signage and Iconography:
Designed and modeled signage systems, incorporating regional cultural motifs and iconography to reflect Kerala’s heritage and hospitality.
Developed a clear and consistent design language for all signage elements, reinforcing TRV’s identity as a modern yet culturally rooted airport.
Collaboration and Coordination:
Worked closely with architectural teams using Revit models and allied services to integrate wayfinding systems seamlessly into the terminal architecture.
Ensured all wayfinding elements complemented TRV’s design vision while meeting international aviation standards.
Branding and Identity:
Created branding guidelines and a cohesive identity for the airport, aligning with Adani Group’s overall brand ethos and the unique character of Trivandrum.
Designed a visually engaging icon system and digital assets for enhanced passenger experience.
Presentation and Visualization:
Delivered high-quality presentations and VR renders, enabling effective communication of design intent and facilitating rapid feedback loops with stakeholders.
Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and Estimation:
Prepared detailed BOQs and cost estimates for all signage and wayfinding components, supporting accurate budgeting and implementation.
Your contributions at Trivandrum International Airport ensured an enhanced and welcoming experience for travelers, blending functionality and Kerala’s rich cultural context.
Adani Trivandrum Aiport (Expantion)
About the project
The Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) International Airport is undergoing a comprehensive expansion plan, including the redevelopment of Terminals 1 and 2, construction of new infrastructure like multi-level car parking, retail areas, a five-star hotel, and ATC facilities. The project, known as "Project Anantha," is designed to increase the airport's capacity to handle 27 million passengers and 0.42 million tons of cargo annually. The total built-up area will be 4.52 lakh sq m, with the project slated for completion by January 2034.
Noida Meeting Place, IKEA
About the project
Lykli Noida is a large mixed-use development in Noida, India, developed by Ingka Centres and anchored by an IKEA store. It's a "Meeting Place" concept, integrating retail, dining, entertainment, workspaces, community areas, and hospitality. The project is expected to be functional by 2028 and is part of Ingka Centres' commitment to India.
Position: BIM Manager
Organization: Version Absolute Design Studio
Project Duration: 2024–Ongoing
Position: BIM Manager
Organization: Version Absolute Design Studio
Project Duration: 2023–Ongoing
JEDDAH HAJJ Terminal, SAUDI ARABIA
Position: BIM Manager
Organization: Version Absolute Design Studio
Project Duration: 2023–2024
Key Responsibilities:
Wayfinding Strategy Development:
Conceptualized and developed comprehensive wayfinding strategies tailored to the multi-functional layout of Lykli Noida, ensuring intuitive navigation across retail, hospitality, and office spaces.
Designed signage systems that cater to a diverse visitor base, enhancing user experience throughout the complex.
Collaboration and Coordination:
Collaborated closely with architectural teams utilizing Revit models to integrate wayfinding elements seamlessly into the building's infrastructure.
Coordinated with allied services to align wayfinding solutions with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems.
Brand Identity and Guidelines:
Incorporated the brand guidelines with local and national compliances and regional context.
Visualization and Presentation:
Produced high-quality presentations and virtual reality (VR) renders to effectively communicate design concepts to stakeholders, facilitating prompt feedback and approvals.
Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and Estimations:
Prepared detailed BOQs and cost estimations for all wayfinding components, supporting accurate budgeting and procurement processes.
GMR Bhogapuram Airport
Key Responsibilities:
Concept Development:
Developed comprehensive schematic designs and a detailed Design Basis Report (DBR) tailored to JEDDAH unique passenger flow patterns and spatial layout.
Collaboration and Coordination:
Worked closely with architectural teams using Revit models and allied services to integrate wayfinding systems seamlessly into the terminal architecture.
Ensured all wayfinding elements complemented design vision while meeting aviation standards.
Branding and Identity:
Created branding guidelines and a cohesive identity for the airport, aligning with JEDCO's overall brand ethos and the unique character of Jeddah with its religious significances.
Presentation and Visualization:
Delivered high-quality presentations and VR renders, enabling effective communication of design intent and facilitating rapid feedback loops with stakeholders.
Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and Estimation:
Prepared detailed BOQs and cost estimates for all signage and wayfinding components, supporting accurate budgeting and implementation.
Position: BIM Wayfinding Architect
Organization: Version Absolute Design Studio
Project Duration: 2025
About the project
Worked as a Wayfinding Designer and BIM Coordinator on the GMR Flight Information Display System (FIDS) project, supporting the planning, coordination, and implementation of passenger information displays across airport environments. Responsibilities included developing display layouts, coordinating BIM models with architectural and MEP teams, optimizing screen placement for passenger visibility and readability, preparing technical documentation, and ensuring compliance with airport wayfinding standards, operational requirements, and stakeholder feedback throughout the design process.
Community 2, Mukkab, Saudi Arabia
Position: BIM Wayfinding Architect
Organization: Evibes
Project Duration: 2026- Ongoing
Iconic Towers, Saudi Arabia
Position: Site wide strategy
Organization: Evibes
Project Duration: 2026- Ongoing
King Fahd International Airport, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
About the project
Served as the BIM Wayfinding Manager and Wayfinding Strategist for the external wayfinding package at King Fahd International Airport, with primary responsibility for the planning, coordination, and implementation of facade signage across terminal buildings and airport infrastructure.
Led the BIM coordination and strategic development of large-scale exterior signage, ensuring seamless integration with architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines. Developed sign placement strategies based on passenger approach routes, visibility, viewing distances, and airport operational requirements while maintaining consistency with the airport’s branding and international wayfinding standards.
Managed the BIM workflow for facade sign families, installation coordination, and construction documentation, resolving interdisciplinary clashes and supporting design validation through 3D models. Collaborated closely with architects, engineers, fabricators, and client stakeholders to optimize sign locations, structural interfaces, maintenance access, and constructability, ensuring accurate execution from design through installation.