Building signs
Building signs are essential for wayfinding, safety, branding, and providing information to occupants and visitors. Here’s an overview of the main categories and their purposes
Exterior Building Signs
Purpose: To identify the building and provide visibility from a distance.
Examples:
• Building Identification Signs: Display the name of the building, address, or logo. Typically mounted on the façade or near the entrance.
• Monument Signs: Free-standing structures near entrances that may also list key tenants.
• Parking and Accessibility Signs: Indicate parking areas, visitor spaces, accessible entrances, and designated routes.
Lobby and Directory Signs
Purpose: Help visitors navigate the building upon entering and locate specific floors, suites, or departments.
Examples:
• Directory Boards: List tenants, floors, departments, or rooms with arrows or floor numbers.
• Welcome Signs: Often include building branding or logos, with options for digital displays showing announcements or messages.
Wayfinding and Directional Signs
Purpose: Guide people through the building to their destinations, reducing confusion and enhancing flow.
Examples:
• Directional Arrows: Point to elevators, restrooms, stairwells, or areas like reception.
• Floor Indicators: Help people identify floors and primary areas on each level.
• Elevator and Stairwell Signs: Indicate access points, floor numbers, and safety information.
Room and Door Identification Signs
Purpose: Identify individual rooms, offices, or areas to help visitors locate specific destinations.
Examples:
• Room Numbers and Names: Display room numbers or names, like “Suite 202” or “HR Office.”
• Purpose-Based Labels: For conference rooms, break rooms, restrooms, and other shared spaces.
• Braille and Tactile Signs: These are required for accessibility and to provide information for visually impaired visitors.
Safety and Regulatory Signs
Purpose: Ensure the safety of building occupants and compliance with regulations.
Examples:
• Exit Signs: Indicate exits clearly for evacuation routes.
• Emergency Procedures: Evacuation maps, fire extinguisher locations, and first aid points.
• Restricted Area Notices: Label areas that require authorization, like electrical rooms.
• Accessibility and Compliance Signs: Indicate wheelchair-accessible routes, entrances, and ADA-compliant features.
Informational and Notice Signs
Purpose: Provide information on building policies, updates, or services.
Examples:
• Announcements and Event Boards: Display information on building events, maintenance schedules, or announcements.
• Facility Hours: Indicate hours for building amenities like gyms or cafes.
• Visitor Policy Notices: Outline check-in procedures, mask requirements, or other guidelines.
Key Considerations for Building Signage
- Legibility: Fonts, size, and color contrast should be easily readable from a distance.
- Consistency: A unified style across signage reinforces the brand and improves navigation.
- Compliance: Follow ADA and local regulations for accessible and emergency signage.
- Visibility and Placement: Signs should be visible at decision points, entrances, and areas where visitors may need direction.
By covering these categories, building signage enhances the experience for all occupants and visitors, ensuring safety, accessibility, and clear navigation throughout the premises.