Posts Tagged Interior signage
Adding value with signs
Posted by Neil in Auckland Signwriter on July 19th, 2009
Although we have principally discussed interior signage here, the exterior directional and informational signage are equally important, and are most often designed to work with the interior program. The measure of the value of a well-conceived signage program is the enhanced functionality and aesthetic appeal as it translates into a positive economic impact (profit) to the owner.
Office buildings are certainly not immune to competition. Highly trained and skilled property management companies, for the most part, manage such facilities professionally. In order to effectively compete for tenants, they must portray an appearance that potential clients recognize as one which meets their expectations of how their firm should be perceived by their own clients. In other words, does the image of the building match that of the potential client’s firm? If this sounds like snob appeal, it is, but by the same token this demonstrates how sensitive appearance and image is to building owners and managers, their clients, and visitors who are themselves clients. The visual environment is everything, and once again appropriate signage plays a vital role.
The importance of interior signage is firmly established, and respected by both the design and business community for its contribution to the commercial success of a facility. We look forward to newer and greater products in the area of signage, graphics, and electronic media addressing communication, identification, merchandising, and marketing.
Interior Signage
Posted by Neil in Auckland Signwriter on July 15th, 2009
The Background & The Evolution of an Industry
Never in our history has there been such growth in the field of communications. Our cities and public areas have become ever more complex, and many of our new facilities are overwhelming in size and intricacy. These factors make it obvious that well-designed, aesthetically pleasing signage must be placed to help those unfamiliar with a site or facility to find the way to their destination.
Interior signage has been used for many years; however, it has only been since the early 1970’s that it has been recognized for its importance. Prior to that, there was little concern for the continuity of design, color, letter style, or installation, and interior signs were considered utilitarian in nature. Once buildings began appearing with attractive, professionally designed signage systems, an appreciation developed for the part that signage plays in the success of the facility.
Variety of Sites and Facilities
Each type of facility has its own unique set of requirements for identification and wayfinding, and it is incumbent on the designer to analyze and address those.
For example, a typical small retail store or restaurant in a shopping area primarily requires identification to attract customers passing by. Once in the store, visitors are directed by departmental and merchandising type signage. Larger stores employ directories, and wayfinding signage to get to various departments or floors. Also, executive office identification, and common area public signage (such as restrooms) are directed and identified for the benefit of customers. As the stores become larger, and thus more complex, the demand for signage increases.
In the mall setting, retailers are dependent on their identification sign to attract customers, however, the mall owner is concerned with disseminating information regarding the entire facility and attracting and retaining more tenants. Such amenities as large map directories at each entrance, directional signs for restrooms, food courts, first aid, and emergency exits are keys to the overall success of the enterprise.
Hotels and resorts require intensive signage for wayfinding throughout the facility, of which very little is escorted. Beyond simply finding the correct room number, modern hotels and resorts embrace many of the same retail options found in a mall, and directional signs along with signs that provide for the safety of guests are essential.