The UK’s many period railway stations should have signage which celebrates their history while also being effective today
Services involved:
The railway was invented in Britain over 200 years ago, and it’s not just the trains which have a fascinating story to tell. There are hundreds of period railway stations up and down the country, and each one deserves to have its history preserved and celebrated. As well as the sympathetic maintenance of the buildings themselves, time should be spent on the design of heritage station signage to ensure it accurately reflects the original period, while complying with modern regulations.
Designing heritage style signage for a UK railway station requires careful consideration of historical accuracy, readability, aesthetics, and compliance with relevant regulations.
KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER:
Different eras used distinct typographic styles, colours, and materials. Our team will thoroughly research the specific time period you’re trying to replicate and study old photographs, documents, and architectural plans of the railway station to accurately replicate the specific historical design elements.
Where the original font and colour are unavailable, we will find the closest alternative from all which are available today. We will also sympathetically update elements of the original signage designs, such as spacing and contrast, to enhance readability, especially for visually impaired individuals.
Materials like glass, brass, copper, wood, or enamel may be considered for a vintage look. Where appropriate, we also employ traditional fabrication techniques including hand-painted lettering, signwriting, back-painted glass panels and bespoke metalwork – skills that are increasingly rare but essential for authenticity. We will select durable, weather-resistant materials and finishes to ensure the longevity of the new signage whilst ensuring that the signage is true to its original design and fabrication method.
Transport Signs will ensure signage is placed at strategic locations, such as entrances, ticket counters, platforms, and other key areas where passengers need guidance to find their way, such as exits, restrooms, and other amenities. Where possible, we will adhere to the original signage positions, so long as these locations still offer effective wayfinding for passengers.
We can ensure your heritage signage meets any local regulations regarding historic preservation, while also complying with the UK railways’ current accessibility standards, including provisions for Braille and tactile elements for visually impaired individuals. By considering all of these factors, Transport Signs can help you to create heritage style signage that not only preserves the historical essence of the railway station but also serves its functional purpose effectively
Every now and then, a project comes along that’s a real pleasure to be part of — and the restoration of the signage at Richmond Station was exactly that.
The UK’s many period railway stations should have signage which celebrates their history while also being effective today
The design, fabrication and installation of new heritage signage as part of the restoration of this Grade II listed Art Deco station.
We help you preserve the character of your station while ensuring it works for every passenger today.
To find out more, please contact our team to discuss your project