For architects, designers and specifiers, bespoke signage presents a way of creating functionality and visual interest as an integral part of a design of a building. What is the difference between bespoke signage and ordinary signage? In this guide we will discuss bespoke signage, its uses, and why it’s important in architectural projects.
What Is Bespoke Signage?
Bespoke signage is a form of signage design and manufacture that is specifically made to meet a certain aesthetic, function or branding need. Unlike standard sign types, which are usually provided as off the shelf products, bespoke signs are made to order and designed to meet the specific needs of an organisation or space.
How is Bespoke Signage Different from the Regular Signage?
– Customisation: While standard signage is provided in standard off-the-shelf formats, bespoke signs may be designed to meet the specific requirements of a project.
– Material Choices: Bespoke signage offers a variety of materials to choose from including brushed metals, glass, reclaimed wood, custom plastics and a whole range of other materials which are quite different from the standard signage materials.
– Attention to Detail: These are aspects of design that include illumination, font face, and the accuracy in the cutting of the signs.
– Purpose Built: Bespoke signs that are specifically designed for the conditions present in a project, whether it is durability for outdoor use or for high traffic areas such as in a healthcare facility.
Customisation Options
Bespoke signage offers opportunities for customisation throughout the design of the signage, including:
– On the type of material to be used, which may be acrylic, wood, brass or eco-friendly materials.
– On the shape and size to conform with complicated designs from curved walls to complicated architectural forms.
– On colour and the finish that can be in line with the brand or to suit the environment.
Advanced Illumination Techniques
For the projects which require dynamic panels, lighting is a crucial factor. Some of the specific areas of bespoke signage include the use of halo-lit or edge-lit techniques for visible and striking sign types. These not only enhance the visibility of a brand, but also make for a striking impact.
The Role of Bespoke Signage in Architecture
Enhancing Brand Identity and Aesthetics
Bespoke signage serves a practical purpose, but it also makes a dramatic design statement that goes beyond function. For instance, when a company’s logo is incorporated into the sign, it enhances the branding of the company while at the same boosting the design story of the building.
Creating Memorable User Experiences
Well thought-out signage is very effective in directing people from one point to another. It works on the basis of each and every visitor and provides a clear and simple method of use.
Signage as a Functional Element
Wayfinding signage is essentially enhanced by bespoke signage especially in facilities that are large and with many floors such as hospitals, airports and large campuses. Standard signage products can be very cost-effective, but custom made signs can do both the work of directing people and at the same time enhancing the appearance of the environment.
Benefits of Choosing Bespoke Signage
Better Visibility and Brand Recognition
Bespoke signage always captures the attention. It can be placed in a hotel lobby, a retail store or on the entrance to a building, to ensure that businesses and organisations create a memorable impact.
Tailored to Meet Architectural Needs
Bespoke signage is capable of satisfying the specific requirements of a space, where standard sign types won’t be functional. Bespoke signage offers more creative opportunity to conform with the overall scheme because it requires creative input from a design team.
Long-Term Cost Efficiency and Durability
Bespoke signs are made of strong materials such as stainless steel or toughened glass which makes them durable. Solutions such as modular signage systems also provide flexibility for updates or expansions, saving costs over time.
For 25+ years, xsign has been devoted to developing products that not only are highly durable but also have a modern and elegant finish in order to meet the needs of the clients across the various industries.
How to Incorporate Bespoke Signage in Design Projects
Working with Designers and Fabricators
One of the drawbacks of bespoke signage is that careful attention to detail is needed to ensure the sign types work with the space they are being installed in. This is why it is imperative to work with professional signage manufacturers such as xsign to ensure that the technical and creative aspects of the project are cohesive with the project objectives.
Key Design and Placement Considerations
– Know the Environment: Studying the building’s design, traffic flow and light conditions will help in placing the signs properly.
– Use Prototyping: It is advisable to test material samples, the readability of fonts and the effects of lighting before giving the final approval.
– Prioritise Compliance: Ensure all the signs designed are in accordance to the local building regulations and other regulations such as providing braille or tactile signs.
When working with a professional team at the initial concept stage, these considerations can be incorporated properly, keeping projects on course and within their planned time and cost.
The Future of Bespoke Signage
Emerging Trends in Bespoke Signage
Technologies such as AR (Augmented Reality) signs or digital signs that respond to users are new trends that are shaping the future of bespoke signs.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Choices
Today, built environment communities are very concerned with environmental issues. xsign offers its customers sustainable materials for signage projects, such as the repurposed wooden members and recycled metals that can help the clients attain green building certifications.
Why it is Important to Invest in Bespoke Signage, Not Just View it as an Expense.
For architects, designers, and specifiers, bespoke signage is not just an afterthought, it is an important aspect of architectural design. It can boost branding, increase efficiency or add a touch of personality, which is why bespoke signage is always a stronger choice.
From the consultation process to the manufacture stage, our team is more than willing to assist you in creating signage systems and schemes that are in line with your design objectives.
If you want to know more about bespoke signage or need help, get in touch.