Building Signage: How to Make a Lasting Impression

March 04, 2025

Hey there, fellow signage enthusiasts! As a signwriter with decades of experience, I’ve had the pleasure of transforming countless buildings into eye-catching landmarks. Whether you’re a business owner looking to boost your brand’s visibility or a designer seeking some fresh ideas, this blog post is for you. Let’s dive into the art of building signage and how to make a lasting impression. Grab your favourite drink, sit back, and let’s get started!

Why Building Signage Matters

First things first, why is building signage so important? Here are a few reasons:

Visibility: Your building sign is often the first thing people notice about your business. It’s your chance to make a great first impression.
Branding: A well-designed sign reinforces your brand identity and helps people remember your business.
Navigation: Signs guide customers to your location, making it easier for them to find you.
Professionalism: Quality signage reflects professionalism and attention to detail, which can build trust with your customers.

Now that we know why building signage is crucial, let’s explore some tips and tricks to make your signage truly stand out.

1. Design with Purpose

Every great sign starts with a solid design. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Clarity: Your sign should be easy to read from a distance. Use bold fonts and high-contrast colours to ensure maximum visibility.
Simplicity: Don’t clutter your sign with too much information. Stick to the essentials: your business name, logo, and a brief tagline if necessary.
Consistency: Your sign should reflect your brand’s colours, fonts, and overall style. Consistency across all your branding materials helps build recognition.

2. Choose the Right Materials

The materials you choose for your sign can have a big impact on its durability and appearance. Here are some popular options:

Acrylic: Lightweight and versatile, acrylic is great for illuminated signs and can be cut into various shapes.
Aluminium: Durable and weather-resistant, aluminium is perfect for outdoor signs.
Wood: For a rustic, classic look, wood can add a touch of elegance to your sign.
Aluminium Composite: Consist of two thin layers of aluminium sandwiching a plastic core. Perfect for outdoor use.

3. Lighting Makes a Difference

Illuminating your sign can make it visible day and night. Here are some lighting options to consider:

Backlit Signs: These signs have lights behind them, creating a glowing effect that makes your sign stand out.
LED Signs: Energy-efficient and bright, LED lights are a popular choice for modern signage.
Neon Signs: For a retro vibe, neon signs offer a unique and eye-catching option.

4. Placement and Size

Where you place your sign and how big it is can greatly affect its impact:

Height: Make sure your sign is positioned at a height that’s easy to see from the street. Too high or too low, and people might miss it.
Size: Your sign should be large enough to be seen from a distance but not so large that it overwhelms your building’s facade.
Location: Consider the surrounding environment. A sign that blends in too much with its background won’t catch people’s attention.

Practical Tips for Beginners

Get Inspired: Look at other successful signs for inspiration. Note what you like and what you don’t.
Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to consult with a professional signwriter or designer. Their expertise can make a big difference.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new things. The world of signage is full of possibilities, so let your creativity shine.

Conclusion

Building signage is more than just a marker for your business—it’s a powerful tool for making a lasting impression. By focusing on clear design, choosing the right materials, incorporating lighting, and ensuring proper placement and maintenance, you can create a sign that not only attracts attention but also leaves a memorable impact.

So, roll up your sleeves, get creative, and make your building signage a true reflection of your brand’s identity.

Happy signwriting!