Many people think that traditional signage has been phased out and replaced by digital signage as a result of technological advancements developed over time. However, business establishments and buildings say otherwise. Traditional signage continues to place the same effect it had on people for years.
Even with rusted signage, a business establishment could still receive much attention without having to utilize very elements like lighting and LED billboards. Your signage should match the overall vibe of your architectural style so there are no segments that appear too left out or contrasting.
To guide you, we have enumerated below the following features which you should be looking into when coming up with your rusted architectural signage.
The Type of Metal to be Used
Since you’re going for rusted signage, the material that best delivers the vintage look in your signage is none other than metal. But keep in mind it’s not simply just picking any metal out there as various types offer different outputs or results.
A common metal type is aluminum which is preferred by many due to its numerous advantages. It is lighter than most types of metals, malleable, flexible, and has strong resistance to corrosion. Its malleability allows the machine cutter to slice through the material in a very detailed and smooth manner.
Stainless steel is another common type of metal with similar properties to the former. The two metals have similar characteristics but differ in finishing processes and appearance. Stainless steel would reflect a swirly figure on its surface when applied with polishes or brushes.
On the other hand, there’s brass and copper which are old types of metal and have been utilized by many industries over the years due to their colors. However, the major disadvantage in using them is the patina that forms on their surfaces that will transform their appearance eventually.
The surface of the brass will turban a shade darker while the copper will exude a green hue especially when it is subjected to external elements. Placing layers of protective coating or sealers is usually done to avoid such issues, but some prefer to stick with the new look of the surface just like rusted signages.
Architectural or wire mesh
Wire mesh is considered a metal work since it is a compilation of metal wires that are formed to create a work of art. Designers are given the liberty to experiment with the most unique looks that convert what is normally used for industrial applications into an instrument of creativity.
You may not appreciate architectural mesh at first glance since they seem to be mere stainless steel wires linked together to display particular patterns or formations but the challenge is producing a display of ingenuity and imagination with simply those materials and concerning the shape of the building where it will be attached.
Paint application can be done to the surfaces of the wires directly so it is at the discretion of the designers for the masterpiece they wish to make according to their visions and creative thoughts. What makes it easier to wrap the building around with mesh is due to its properties. The mesh is lighter than other materials, so it is quite applicable to a lot of places within the establishment such as the parking area or mesh sculptures displayed inside the building.
There are newer ways to upgrade the look of mesh panels. There’s the illuminated mesh where the panels create a lighting effect that appears attractive, especially during nighttime. The business itself can control the lighting being shown at very specific times within the day. This is a very effective way to appeal to people of all ages and grab their attention. What’s even better is that you can change the lighting patterns to suit any event that is particularly celebrated.
Signage typography
Typography is a crucial element in architectural signage because it sets the mood or vibe of the signage. This means that simply picking a random font and applying it to the signage isn’t a work of quality but ordinary and plain.
Now, specific fonts are incorporated due to the typographical illusions that are produced when viewed by people and these leave them amazed. They tend to stay longer just to decipher the signage and provide the business the attention even just for a small while.
Inspiration from the fonts and optical creativity with the look of the signage is used to make various visual works using materials like glass and mirrors. Just a touch of the innovative mind then you’re good to go! Unique signage that doesn’t have to be made with super costly materials but does look like it was bought from art expos or galleries.
Final thoughts
When we say business signage, we usually think of just putting a label on the establishments without giving a thought to enhancing the look to attract customers. Now, that’s entirely changed since many businesses have employed the tools to achieve brand recognition a bit faster.
If you’re looking for a sign whether you need architectural signage, chances are, this is it. It’s not simple to come up with a very unique mesh masterpiece since it takes lots of time, especially when making sure the design suits the totality of the establishment. Shieldco rusted signage could be an inspiration for your next signage project. It is best that you look into examples to help you with your creative juices.
