Show stopper trends into interior building design...

We recently experienced some interest in the decorative design frames we had on display at a commercial and residential builder’s show we attended last month.

Of particular note were the sheets of architectural metal we had printed our logo colors and messaging upon and then wove them or slid them into the large frames we used as a backdrop for our product display.

Metalcraft utilized the metal design presentation to show case our wide variety of SIGN elements.

This included our sign frames, stands, brackets and streetscapes.

 We would like to post some photos share with you the dynamics of the installation.

The frame on the right is constructed of lightweight aluminum and allows for the easy slide in of your printed materials. The presentation can be quickly changed out for upcoming events and holidays by removing the printed panel and replacing with an updated print. Prints can utilize branding as well as creative imagery of abstract or photo real creation.

The center frame is the woven metal presentation, a very popular piece at the show. It is an attention grabber and any photo real or created abstract does well with this installation. We see it being used for wall art, reception areas and an assortment of lobby locations as wall decor.

The far left represents the flexible and malleable shaping of the metal for column and curved wall architectural dynamics. Once again the print can range from abstract to photo real and with your created art files the colors, patterns and size can elevate the elements of a public or private space.

There were many comments received from interior designers in regards to installing the frames as self- standing and wall hanging art pieces for the hospitality (hotel, restaurant, and spa) and service industry (hospitals, medical, retail etc.).

We have been receiving follow up requests for customized similar presentations and thought we should reach out in our blog for the opportunity to review any specifications you may have regarding the size/dimensions of interest for your projects...

Please keep in mind we can work from your art files and color palette, creating a custom metalwork look for your design space.

We find the panels are lightweight transportable and easy to install.

We would be glad to work up a quote for your request, please contact us with the L x W x H and QTY of the panels.

For the art files we would require Adobe Illustrator files to size at time of order placement.

Please include a brief description of the art files with your quote request. (If you need assistance in creating the art files, we can also include an estimated time to create the files and include it in the quote.)

If you think of an idea and it would utilize these building design elements or perhaps any decorative components you may find on our website, please send us a quick sketch or drawing with some dimensions and we will be glad to quote the job for you.

Modifying and changing up our components is what we do best and what can make Metalcraft your go to manufacturer for all your customized sign supply needs.

Just looking through some company pics this week, getting ready to update our logo to Celebrating 21 years…

Most days we are completing orders and building inventory of our sign frames and brackets.

The production plant often has unique and interesting jobs running, we powder coat many items each day and the range can be anywhere from outdoor furniture to aluminum sculptures…this was a recent request...it was powder coated green after this picture was taken and then it was shipped up north for finishing touches and install for the holidays..

I will see if I can get a picture of the completed project in place to add to this note.

FINDING YOUR WAY? FOLLOW THE SIGNS.

All transportation and redevelopment projects, as well as new community developments, require some signage.

It’s a matter of whether that signage will be the minimum required – an afterthought, or will be comprehensively planned to compliment the rest of the project and the project’s marketing and livability goals.

If you look, you will notice that much existing signage in existing districts and neighborhoods is incomplete, and poorly maintained – as well as having inappropriate and unauthorized additions.

Encouraging, easing, and enhancing communities with informative directional solutions can be a very productive investment and clearly a part of creating a sense of place.

Like the other parts of new developments and redevelopment projects, park enhancements, road improvements, and parking facilities, a comprehensive wayfinding program combined with road clutter reduction, can enhance the experience of the community and its sense of place for residents and visitors alike.

It can increase tourism and enhance retail revenues – contributing to economic vitality, quality of life, and community pride.

Improved circulation and shortened searches for destinations and parking can reduce accidents, trip lengths, fuel consumption, and pollution.

As with other capital improvements, wayfinding systems can be designed to reinforce the “brand” of the community or district.

A wayfinding plan researches and analyzes boundaries, routes, decision points, and destinations, as well as signs and sign content required.

A guideline of components are listed here with links to our website.

Sign Types

• Gateway, boundary, and locator
• Guide, trail blazer, and directional
• Directory, interpretive mapping, and informational
• Regulatory, warning, and street name
• Banners and Transit

Sign Elements

• Post/Pole – single or multiple, usually round, might be square or other shape, such as smooth or fluted; possibly frangible as a crash breakaway feature.
• Pole BASE – decorative element that might match or compliment street light poles or other street furniture, such as benches or litter receptacles.
• Sign Panel – box frame, panel, or built-up, contains sign legend, graphic, and/or pictograph
• Finial – decorative top cap of the post/pole or accessory rods
• Fittings – connections and fastenings

Considerations when choosing materials

• Family of Signs General Specifications
• Sign Unit Design Details
• Structure Types and Specifications
• Sign Type Use Within Program
• Pricing Alternatives
• Permitting Requirements (State,County,City)
• Installation Requirements
• Maintenance, replacement, expansion

Planning a Wayfinding System

• Research customer goals
• Study boundaries, jurisdictions, routes, decision points, destinations, and existing signage
• Develop database and mapping for sign locations, sign legends, sign and legend sizes
• Design, engineer, develop specifications for signs and other street furniture
• Prioritize and budget

http://metalcraftindustries.net/wayfinding-solutions/

http://metalcraftindustries.net/decorative-poles-finials-and-bases/

http://metalcraftindustries.net/post-panel-systems/

http://metalcraftindustries.net/street-signs-building-safety-signs-3/

Metalcraft Industries has a portfolio of successfully completed projects, and we look forward to the opportunity to work together with you on your upcoming development of community wayfinding.