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From Boring to Brilliant: 3 Ways to Gussy Up ADA Signage

ADA Signage may be the most basic or “vanilla” of signs. Here a few of our designers share their favorite ways to “gussy” up even the most basic of ADA signs. Here’s an interesting article on the history of braille you might like.

1.Use light to provide design: Clear acrylics add dimension to ADA Signage.

By using a thicker acrylic with polished edges and painting the back of the sign, light is able to come through the sides and provide dimension. Applied ADA lettering casts a shadow partnered with the back paint (aka subsurface or 2nd surface) and the thicker the acrylic the more the shadow. It’s a classy touch that works well with matte or satin finish which are needed to meet ADA Guidelines.

Bruce Leasure, Designer

Personally, I like a 3/8" (or thicker) P-95 acrylic sign face with 2nd surface paint and 1st surface graphics/copy. It makes a nice subtle drop shadow on the painted surface, and just looks sharp. Pair that with a custom aluminum accent or a custom shaped panel, and it’s just perfection.

2.Back that thing up: Add a backer to an ADA Sign.

Adding a backer can give some uniqueness and it’s a great way to tie in design elements throughout a facility. From an architectural shape present in the design to a unique color or pattern to help the sign pop, or compliment the design.

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Ashley LaRue, Designer

I like using custom shapes and acrylics as backers with ADA signs as an accent. Even using an undersized backer where the ADA portion looks as though it is floating is also a nice subtle way to bring more design into a simple sign.

3.Unique materials add to great design: Interesting graphics, panels, or laminate can do a lot.

Graphics themselves have come so far in just the last few years. Designing and printing custom backgrounds make both for an interesting sign and tie in with the overall facility design. Laminates are also very versatile and plentiful in options. Use laminates for the backer, the sign, or a simple accent and goes a long way in adding just the right amount of spiff to the sign. Photopolymer that uses 3Form designs is always a solid option. New to the mix are wrapped laminates called “foils” that give the sign texture with a finished edge. These are all great ways to gussy up a simple ADA sign.

Terri Leedom, Designer

I really like using subtle subsurface patterns or nature graphics. Nature is always calming and ideal for facilities like hospitals or care centers.

Where to Start?

There are millions of options for great ADA Signage. Most importantly is to work with a trusted partner who is an expert in ADA Guidelines and the parameters around acceptable design, accessibility, and proper installation.

Want to learn more about options for ADA Signage or see some samples? Find a sign expert that can help you do just that.

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