ImageFirst News

What is the difference between architectural and commercial exterior signage?

Do we truly understand the difference between Architectural and Commercial signage? The old adage of “form usually follows function” has never been clearer when defining the need and function that a sign will provide.

There are 4 common features that will help determine the difference:

Function
Brand Identity
Materials & construction
Facility integration

Simply put, if you need 500+ branded signs that all look the same, are cheap, and will fit into each location the same way, then you need a commercial sign application.

Conversely, if the sign is to complement the landscape and architectural design of the facility while incorporating the client’s brand identity in a less dominating manner, then an architectural exterior sign is needed.

Decide what type of sign is best for your project:

Commercial exterior sign features:

Mass-produced for brief life cycles
Designed to be viewed from a distance
Exposed seams & fasteners acceptable
Usage of less expensive, thinner, light-weight materials
Dominated by brand identity – typically “bright & loud” color, contrast, and materials

Architectural exterior signs features:

High attention to detail with heavier gauge, higher quality materials
Custom sizes, shapes, & mounting solutions
Built for a long life cycle
Designed to be viewed at closer perspective
Limited exposed fasteners & seams
Integrates brand identity while complimenting the architectural environmental design and building materials
Match the architectural environment/design of the facility
Accurately implement a Wayfinding study and messaging

ImageFirst News

What is the difference between architectural and commercial exterior signage?

Do we truly understand the difference between Architectural and Commercial signage? The old adage of “form usually follows function” has never been clearer when defining the need and function that a sign will provide.

There are 4 com­mon fea­tures that will help deter­mine the difference:

Decide what type of sign is best for your project:

Com­mer­cial exte­ri­or sign features:

Archi­tec­tur­al exte­ri­or signs features:

Have ques­tions? Want to learn more or see up close how we man­u­fac­ture archi­tec­tur­al sig­nage? Con­tact Us!

The Color of Signage

How Do You Wash Outdoor Signs?

There are 4 common features that will help determine the difference:

Commercial exterior sign features:

Architectural exterior signs features:

Have questions? Want to learn more or see up close how we manufacture architectural signage? Contact Us!