Signage in urban environments definitely takes a beating—its affected by everything from weather damage to pedestrian interaction—and upkeep can be costly. That’s why we were intrigued when we learned about Système Huntingdon, Inc’s Alto product line.
This system of sub-surface graphics offers an interesting solution to the exterior signage problem. Système Huntingdon’s unique digital transfer method embeds graphics into architectural materials through a heat-and-vacuum process—essentially making the graphics part of the material. This can be done on flat, textured, or three-dimensional surfaces, embedding graphics into materials such as aluminum, steel, glass, or ceramics.
A product like this would be great for urban environmental graphics and other signage installations in areas with high pedestrian traffic because the signs will be graffiti-resistant and offer both weather- and UV-protection. The process is also environmentally friendly—it doesn’t emit VOCs, and it uses water-based inks and recyclable base materials.
We’re considering this for our Pacific Avenue wayfinding project because the city of Tacoma is concerned about long-term maintenance. Have you had any experience with these or similar products? We’d be interested to hear about it in the comments section!
Image: An example of Système Huntingdon’s products used in urban environmental graphics.
We’re currently working with AHBL, a design and engineering firm, to create a wayfinding program for the City of Tacoma’s Pacific Avenue. This streetscape improvement plan will create a pedestrian-friendly environment for people to engage with the city and its unique history.
The new signage we’re designing is modern, clean, and structural, referencing the industrial character of the city. Image panels embedded in the faces of the L-shaped posts will feature historical photographs that are relevant to each sign’s location. This integrated artwork will create visual interest for pedestrians, encouraging them to linger and learn a bit about the city’s rich history.
As part of the design phase, we’ve also been working with an advisory committee of Tacoma business leaders, determining locations for signs along Pacific Avenue and a hierarchy of destination messages for the wayfinding program. The current program focuses on the downtown district, but can easily be expanded to other areas of the city.
In addition to the new signage, Pacific Avenue will also see increased green space, bike facilities, lighting, and public art. Once complete, the updated streetscape will give pedestrians and businesses a welcoming place to connect with the history of their city and participate in building its future.
Image: rendering of future Pacific Avenue signage.
What are YOU doing tonight? If you’re in downtown Seattle, stop by ZGF Architects for a visually stunning presentation from Voices of the Earth. Led by photographer Robin Acker Bush, this company uses nature photographs—mostly underwater settings and stone formations—in environmental graphic design. According to Bush, these images, which show small organisms in large scale, seek to “connect us spatially and experientially to the natural world.”
Hope to see you there!
EVENT DETAILS:
Thursday, February 2, 2012
5:30-7:30
ZGF Architects
925 Fourth Ave., Suite 2400
Seattle, WA 98104
FREE for everyone (whether you’re an SEGD member or not!)
Light snacks provided
Image via Voices of the Earth
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Typographic buildings, inverted skyscrapers, and a few other fascinating finds for you this week.
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Scared of heights? An apartment in the Earthscraper may be just for you. (Unless you’re afraid of dark, underground spaces, that is…)
Great buildings with typographic exteriors.
Charting the evolution of Western dance music.
The Comedy Carpet is a large (really large!) typographic installation in Blackpool, UK. Can you imagine hand-setting something with more than 160,000 letters?
A new interactive exhibit at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan teaches kids about creating healthy lifestyles.
Image: The Domino House via Letterology
As we move into November, we’re being inspired by illustrated food rules, urban environments, and more.
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In his latest film, Gary Hustwit documents how ordinary citizens can impact their urban environment.
These vintage-inspired designs for classic board games create a great sense of nostalgia…and really make us want to start a Studio Monopoly tournament.
Noma Bar uses negative space to create some fantastic images.
All good movements need a brand identity. Occupy Wall Street is no exception.
When was the last time you heard a dry cleaners sound so musical?
Maira Kalman’s charming illustrations highlight Michael Pollan’s Food Rules.
Image: Noma Bar illustration. (via Design Collector)