In the sign industry, ADA signage is an often-misunderstood product. Recent evolutions in design have allowed manufacturers to move away from the stark designs of the past to create more exciting examples that look better while still fulfilling ADA signage requirements.

The Old Look: Simple and Boring

In the early days of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signs were typically quite basic. Designers focused on meeting display signage regulations dictating character proportion, Braille location, and non-glare finishes while creativity sometimes got lost in the process. The design was often lifeless and generic.

One problem with these designs is they often clashed with the architect's or decorator's vision. They were jarring notes in otherwise harmonious design schemes that incorporated everything from the color of the walls to the layout of furniture. However over time, designers began to realize that there were options. ADA signage could be created that met regulations without sacrificing style.

The New Look: Complex and Vibrant

The new generation of ADA signage is unlike its predecessors. The signs still allow accessibility to vision impaired clients and employees, but incorporate design elements that allow them to blend into the decor rather than standing out.

Signs can meet contrast requirements without being limited to black and white. Textured backgrounds add depth to the image without interfering with readability. Design elements around the edge of the piece transition between the ADA compliant components and the surrounding decor. A host of elegant fonts have been created that meet regulations but offer variety to the sign's look. Braille symbols become part of the design rather than an alien symbol imposed on it.

Many designs are barely recognizable as ADA signage and yet provide all the function needed by customers of any visual ability.

The Challenge of Raised Lettering

Some sign shops find the greatest obstacle to be the tactile lettering requirements. It limits their ability to create the look they want if elements might interfere with a person's ability to feel the raised letters.

Other shops approached this challenge by realizing that the raised letters and the visible letters can be separate. The visible lettering on the sign can meet certain aspects of ADA signage regulations such as contrast and finish. However the raised letters that meet the tactile requirements of the sign, can be colored to blend into the background.

Design of visual displays has always been a marriage of form and function, and ADA signage is no different. Creative designers find a way to produce custom displays that meet all regulations and the needs of your customers, as well as being aesthetically pleasing and appropriate to the style of your business.