Case Studies
Brief
To create a new corporate image based on these specific guidelines: Moulded graphics with red LED illumination to front white halo. Background to be framed with ACM and to be provided in components for ease of transportation and cost effective on-site assembly.
Process
Following group discussions with our client representatives, we produced drawings to illustrate the best sizes for the backing frames, panels and letter heights. We then manufactured test moulds to establish the best possible illumination options, as well as mould depths to enable us to ascertain thinning and/or shrinkage of the materials. At this point we also developed a unique retaining system to ensure screws were not visible from the side or beneath the signs. We then trialed new plastics and colours to ensure brand consistency was maintained across all signage elements including fascia, letters, logo, underline and pylon. Based on the outcomes of this extensive testing and prior to final manufacture and roll-out, we produced prototypes to prove that all signage elements would look and perform in exactly the same manner.
Outcome
Today, we produce fifty percent of all graphics and a major share of all Toyota signage in Australia and New Zealand.
Brief
In 2002, we were commissioned by Woodside to develop and install their sky signage at their newly completed St George’s Terrace, Perth headquarters. Following the success of this initial project, we were again commissioned to develop and implement their new signage requirements (including adhering to stringent environmental standards) for their new corporate image. These environmental standards included the following parameters:
The sky signage had to be state-of-the-art in terms of energy efficiency
All materials used need to be recyclable
All materials used needed to be of the highest durability
The two new sky signs needed to be clearly visible from a distance of 3km away
Regardless of the distance or angle of viewing, the corporate image could not alter in either ratio or format
Process
In order to the meet with the above criteria, we created a significant number of computer generated models. Once we had created the correct model, we manufactured a number of full-size letters and fitted them over the edge of the actual Woodside building. By going through this exercise and by making adjustments in-situ, we were able to ascertain the amount of perimeter light required to meet with the 3km clear visibility criteria. In concert with this process, we designed the extremely complicated Woodside brand (which incidentally stands more than 6.5 metres high and 7.5 metres wide). The other requirement was that both sky signs be able to be completely dismantled at our premises to enable transport to the roof of the Woodside building for reassembly on the face of the building. The specified colours of the Woodside logo are ink colours and subsequently no vinyl existed for two of the specified colours. To overcome this obstacle, we created multiple layers of vinyl. This solution not only achieved the final output colour, but also matched the light output of the LEDs while avoiding clouding and ‘hot spotting’ when illuminated.
Once our team was satisfied that we had the image correct, we commenced full production. Four weeks later, for the purposes of client approval, we had one of the signs fully operational at our premises. Following client approval, we then dismantled the sign in preparation for removal of the old sky signs and installation of the two new sky signs – all timed for the exact launch date for the new Woodside corporate image.
In preparation for the installation 29 storeys above the ground, we ensured each member of our installation team met with the stringent OH&S requirements. Since is was not possible to use a crane to lift the new sign components to the building’s roof, we secured the services of specialist riggers and scaffolders to lift the old signage from the face of the building and up to the roof level. At all times, Work Safe and State Government guidelines were adhered to.
Once the completion date was announced, we immediately mobilised our installers to ensure we installed the new signage within the four-week window we were allowed. Thanks to some great Perth weather and our finely tuned methodology, we completed the install without any OH&S incidents.
Outcome
To say our client was delighted is an understatement. The Woodside sky signs are now a landmark of the Perth CBD. What’s more, the new signs use 70% less energy than the original signs. The original signs were completely recycled, as per our client’s brief.
Brief
Thanks to a recommendation from another client, in 2010 we were approached by ENI Oil & Gas to produce a proposal for a branded sky sign at their new Adelaide Terrace Perth offices. It was identified at that point that ENI would take possession of the new offices in August/September 2011. The brief was very simple: the client required their sky sign to be on the west-facing side of their building. The sky sign needed to be easily visible and perfectly legible from St Georges Terrace. The sky sign needed to be highly visible at night, and the design had to be in keeping with ENI’s corporate brand style.
Process
Following a careful survey of the area and negotiations with both ENI and the building’s owners, it was agreed that the best possible position for the sky sign would be at the top of the blade feature that is clearly visible from St Georges Terrace. We then created our design proposal for the sky sign based on the structural drawings provided. ENI were very excited by our proposal, and forwarded it to their European head office for final approval. Once we had our approvals in place, we provided quotes for a number of options based on different designs and illumination types. At this point we also submitted our proposal to the City Of Perth.
In keeping with ENI’s environmentally and socially conscious ethos, the client selected the option that allowed for the use of materials that could be fully recycled and that also featured energy efficient LED illumination systems.
We then began the sky sign engineering process in keeping with the structural drawings of the building, while at the same time arranging the safest signage installation method. As a matter of course, we also submitted our quality control systems and arranged for the client to inspect our factory ensuring that they were comfortable with the design and manufacturing expectations we had established in our proposal.
The manufacture of the sky sign was completed in four weeks, and we were able to begin the installation phase of the project. This required us to build a gantry scaffold, disassemble the sign, take it up to the building’s roof via the service elevator and re-build the sky sign in-situ. Thanks to our rigorous processes and the large amount of detailed information we provided, the building managers approved the concept almost immediately and we were able to proceed as planned with our client’s blessing.
The scaffold was then built and the sky sign was broken down into components and transported to the building’s roof. The installation took only two days to successfully complete.
Outcome
The ENI sky sign is now a Perth CBD icon providing a clearly visible brand focal point for those driving down St Georges Terrace. The client was extremely happy with the end product and we were able to meet every aspect of their brief.