6.c 2 Architectural Design - SignsCity of Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines Page 44 of 70
Signage on Buildings
Signs on historic buildings and storefronts had a distinct character that played an integral role in the Mainstreet experience.
Signs were simple, bold, and well-crafted using natural materials. The lettering was in a clear, minimalistic style. Signs in
keeping with such historic styles are encouraged.
A signage plan is required for approval when replacing signs, adding new signs, and when building a new commercial
building.
Storefront signs in Scandia
City of Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines Page 45 of 70
Storefront Signs
Location
Orient signs to pedestrians and/or slow-moving cars.
Traditional locations for signs on commercial buildings include:
- On a canvas awning
- On the window glass or glass door (see Stillwater example); historic window signs were painted, etched, or gilded. Mounted
flush to the building facade in the panel above the awning or transom windows
- On the transom window area
- Projecting outwards from the building and oriented to pedestrians.
- Architectural signs integrated into the building and made of permanent materials such as stone or metal, often located in the
roof parapet detailing or in cornerstone detail.
Generally speaking, business signs typically are not located on the upper facade.
Signs painted on buildings will be considered on a case-by-case basis. They should reflect historic design.
Materials
Signs should be made of natural materials such as wood or metal. Painted signs on wood are encouraged as they are consistent
with historic design. Newer materials that simulate natural wood may be acceptable. Supporting brackets for projecting signs should
be black metal.
Yoga Hus sign (Scandia) Aster Café, Main Street, Minneapolis
City of Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines Page 46 of 70
Lighting storefront signs
Backlit and illuminated signs are permitted in all districts where these Design Guidelines apply. Lighting must be diffused or
indirect so no direct rays of light are directed onto the public right-of-way or adjacent residential properties.
Signs may be lighted using spotlights mounted on the building surface or on the ground and aimed at
the sign.
Neon signs are acceptable inside the storefront window.
Inappropriate Lighting on Storefront Signs
Flashing, blinking, and rotating lights.
Neon lighting outside the building
Dynamic Display signs
Raceway lighting
Fluorescent tube lighting
Design
Signs should be kept subordinate to the building and fit within the existing features of the facade.
Signs should not cover up architectural details on the building.
Window signs should not obscure the display area.
Sign colors should complement the colors of the building.
Signs should be clear, concise and easy to read.
Storefront signs should display the business name only, using one line of lettering in simple, bold
letters.
Window signs are applied directly onto the glass of storefront windows by painting, etching, or
gilding. Keep the lettering small and consider arching the top line of text (see illustration).
Projecting signs should be small and simple and use materials consistent with the historic era, i.e.,
wood signs with metal brackets.
Flags
Up to 2 country/state flags may be flown per business or building
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Multiple-tenant buildings
A signage plan is required for approval. On buildings that house multiple businesses and require multiple signs, strive for harmony
and repetition so that signs work together. Minimize the number of fonts to avoid chaos. Consider using a common lettering style on
each sign. Use colors that coordinate with the building and with other signs. Using print in a consistent size, style, and coordinating
colors helps make it easy for passers-by to read and absorb information. Signs that compete with each other for attention using
excessive colors, fonts and logos create chaos, preventing people from absorbing information. Simplicity is key.
When designing, view the building as a whole and plan a unified design strategy for signage
Use the same shape and style for all signs on the building---typically signs on simple, framed rectangular boards. Consider using
long, narrow signs that span the full width of each storefront.
Subdued colors are encouraged, such as forest green, brick red, dark brown, black, off white, and gold.
If the building has a free-standing sign, match the colors and font to the individual store signs. Consider giving the building a name
and making that the predominant message on the free-standing sign, with business names in smaller print below, all in the same
font (lettering style).
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Off-Building Signage
A signage plan is required for approval. Each building may have one monument sign. The design of signs should reflect the
building design, using the same/similar materials and design elements. Signs should provide strong visual interest and use
high-quality construction.
The use of three-dimensional design is encouraged, such as carved wood signs or raised wooden/metal lettering.
City of Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines Page 49 of 70
Monument signs should be placed near the building’s entrance drive. Signs should be low to the ground. Keep in mind that
Scandia is rural and in many neighborhoods signs will be viewed from a local street.
If the building also has storefront signs, match the colors and styles to the building signage. Consider giving the building a
name and making that the predominant message on the free-standing sign, with business names in smaller print below, all in
the same or similar lettering size and style. Using print in a consistent size, style, and coordinating colors helps make it easy
for passers-by to read and absorb information.
The amount of information on signs should be no more than is necessary to provide reasonable identification of the business.
For additional details, refer to Scandia’s sign ordinance.
Example of a sign for a multiple-tenant building