The Objective

Designer Sign Systems needed to ensure that the all aspects of the Allina brand were adhered to while delivering the absolute best result for the customer. Allina wanted the largest lettering for banding possible on the new site while the contractor was working with a new and unique wood fascia material.

Background

Allina has been working with Designer Sign Systems as its primary interior signage provider for many years. Our companies have worked very closely in designing their signage packages for more than 10 years. Working with Kraus Anderson on unique projects such as this one is very typical of our relationship including Black Bear Casino.

The Challenge

The architect had chosen a wood fascia that was mounted with a clip system to keep water from penetrating the building yet allowed for water to flow behind it. The contractor did not want multiple penetrations in to the building that are required for illuminated lettering. Both an Allina Clinic but also a new Sister Kenny™ Sports & Physical Therapy Center and both brands needed to be represented. Since the customer had not made a final determination of which lettering style was going to be used design decision needed to be made. Halo letters provide a great splash of light and are very elegant but cannot be mounted to a rail system. Face lit letters while able to be mounted to a rail system might render the site looking too much like retail. Flat Cut letters provided a great look but did not have the lighting required.

The Strategy

First a meeting between the account management & project management team, architect, contractor, and construction teams was held to flush out all the various options. Our design team developed several concept drawings to show to the customer to aid in deciding what option was the most cost effective as well as met the marketing needs. Additionally our Project Manager met with the city of Ramsey since whatever we ended up with would require a variance and City Council approval. We developed a comprehensive signage program that would be presented at a council meeting.

The Results

The final decision was to use flat cut aluminum lettering but add up lighting to accent the building and letters. This allowed us mount the letters without penetrating the building and maintaining a water tight seal that was required from the contractor. Ultimately the city approved the designs and we were able to develop signage that satisfied all of the customers, maintains the aesthetic of the building, and represents the Allina brand with the high regard it should.