Building signs include all signage fixed directly to the exterior of a building, such as logos, lettering, fascia panels and identification signs. They are commonly installed on elevations, entrances and prominent facades where visibility from distance is important.

As a core part of Exterior Signage, building signs are designed to perform long-term in exposed conditions while remaining clear, legible and visually aligned with the building’s design.

Building signage formats & applications

Building signage can take several forms depending on scale, location and branding requirements.

Primary building identification
Large-format lettering or logos used to identify the building or occupier. This may include flat panel signs, individual letters or built-up formats designed to be read from distance.

Illuminated building signage
Where visibility after dark is essential, illuminated solutions such as Illuminated Signage are commonly specified. These are often used on prominent commercial buildings and retail-led sites.

Non-illuminated building signage
In planning-sensitive locations or where a more restrained aesthetic is required, Non-Illuminated Signage such as ACM panels or flat lettering provides a clean, effective solution.

Building signs differ from shopfront signage in scale and purpose. While Shopfront Signs are designed to attract passing footfall, building signage focuses on identification and recognition from a wider area.

Some buildings require high-impact illuminated signage, while others are shaped by planning controls or architectural considerations that favour non- illuminated solutions. In many cases, building signage is combined with Site Signs to support navigation across larger developments.

Building signage ensures premises are easy to find and recognise. Clear identification reduces confusion for visitors, improves wayfinding across sites and supports a professional external presence.

Well-designed building signs also contribute to brand credibility. Durable, accurately installed signage signals permanence, reliability and attention to detail—particularly important for commercial and public-facing buildings.

JD3 begins by assessing building scale, viewing distances, fixing locations and planning constraints. From this, we recommend appropriate signage formats, materials and mounting methods.

Signs are manufactured using robust materials and installed with secure fixings suited to the building structure. Careful positioning and alignment ensure signage remains legible, compliant and visually consistent over time.