Establishing Place within a Space
In a world of advertisement overload, where many signs are
pushing a product or an idea, there is one sign which, by its presence alone, brings satisfaction to its viewer.
The monumental sign tells travelers that they have reached their destination. After a few hours in the car with the family, the most anticipated thought on everyone’s mind is how they cannot wait to see ‘the sign’. A monumental sign does not only create a sense of identity for the geographical area but also subconsciously within the visitor.
Destinations that host recreational activities and afford a regular flow of visitors can’t afford to have a monumental sign. Modern communities, manufacturing plazas, and outdoor shopping centers strategically place their monumental signs in locations that will be seen by many while making a bold statement of their
presence.
The right materials used in these signs yield perceptions as to what expectations exist in that area, and a hint of historical value, and even economic status. It is appropriate to consider the ratio of the
monument sign to the area which it represents, and how it relates to its environment. A sign should not compete with the natural landscape for attention, but rather embrace the features that are unique to that area.
The design team here at e3 has just wrapped up a project involving monument signs in the northern and southern entrances of Carter Lake in Colorado that makes use of Colorado sandstone and rusted steel for the major spaces of the composition.
Brushed aluminum lettering contrasts the rusted steel plate, giving a modern feel to the monumental sign while respecting the natural tones of the Rocky Mountain landscape.