A well-designed main entry monument sign can add to the prestige of any community. There has been a trend towards using natural materials to match the look and style with the surrounding landscape. There are a few key things you should remember when designing your main entrance signage for your next new home project.
The Architecture of the Homes
Remember to have your main entry signs share some common elements with your architectural designs of the homes in the community. We often make loose concept sketches based on things like columns, brick, stone, stone water tables, roof lines, and window header details.
Geographic Location
Main entry sign design for communities in the Northeast tend to look more traditional in nature. Directly along the shoreline, often you will see cues that contain nautical elements. As you travel inland, community entrances can take on a more transitional look and feel. In the South, you will see more use of vertical tile, and in the West current trends lean towards stone and iron elements.
Materials
There are many materials that sign makers use that have long life. Bronze cast letters are a good choice for permanent entrance signs, for example. There has been a trend away from sand-blasted signs over the last few years, and with the advent of the CNC router, carved and gold leaf signs have become more affordable. The days of using redwood signs have long past, and the most common material for carved signs is now urethane, which is impervious to heat, cold, rain, and salt. It is always a good idea to use steel bracing to support an over-sized urethane sign.
Design
One of my clients once said to me, “Anybody can build a sign… it’s all in the design.” Design your main entry sign to also match the size and scope of the surrounding community. Keep in mind readability when selecting materials, and always think about illumination for viewing and directing people at night.
Landscaping
Always include tall evergreens and trees behind your sign areas. Areas for planting and flowers in front of your main entry signs will add color year round. Don’t forget to think about ways to tie the landscaping in with the main entry sign with things like columns, fencing, stone piers, or iron gates. Always include your landscape designer as an important element to your design team.
Read your local sign ordinance and always obtain a sign permit! If you would like more information on signage for a new upcoming community, contact John Rod & Company at 732-462-2748 or visit www.johnrodandco.com.
