How to Effectively Use Signage in Multi-Unit Properties

At Modern House Numbers, we frequently get questions about the best way to use signs in multi-unit properties. While signage might seem like a minor detail, it’s actually a crucial part of your property. To create effective signage, it's important to think about design, placement, and functionality. Well-designed signs not only guide residents and visitors but also enhance visibility and clearly mark important locations.

Exterior Unit Signage: Exterior signage includes everything from entrance signs that welcome visitors to practical wayfinding signs. When selecting your signs it’s important to consider:

• Your local municipal codes, zoning regulations and building requirements. Make sure to check your local codes, zoning regulations, and building requirements. Sign rules can vary a lot from one city to another, including details like size, height, and color. It's important to keep these guidelines in mind to ensure everything is up to code.

Image Credit: Beau Granger

• Signage that is visible and eye-catching. Several factors can significantly impact the visibility of your signs, including size, lighting, and placement. Start by choosing a size that makes your signs easy to read from a distance—check out our Number + Letter Viewing Distance chart for helpful tips. Lighting is also key in enhancing your sign’s visibility. Well-positioned lights can make your signs stand out and improve readability. Lastly, thoughtfully place your signs to maximize their impact, considering sightlines and traffic patterns to ensure they are easily readable from key vantage points.

Interior Signage: 

When picking out interior signage, it's a good idea to think about how your property is laid out. Consider how people move through the space and where they might need guidance. 

Directional and wayfinding Signs: Think of directional signs as your property's navigational helpers. Place them at important intersections and entry points to steer residents, employees, and visitors in the right direction. Focus on high-traffic areas and key spots like mailrooms, elevators, stairways and amenities. Pay attention to how people move through the space, and make sure each sign is easy to see from different angles so it really does its job.

• Consistency is key: Try to keep your signs looking cohesive by sticking to a similar design style throughout. Use matching finishes and fonts so everything feels unified. And make sure to think about how each sign will fit in with your property’s existing décor and architecture. 

• Aesthetic Appeal: Make your signage stand out. Consider incorporating unique design elements with a custom door plaque, sign or decals. These personal touches can add unique character to your property and enhance its overall appearance. We’ve recently added new restroom and welcome signs to our site to help you achieve this!

• Listen to feedback: Be open to feedback from residents and visitors about your signage. Their insights can be valuable for assessing how well the signs are working and if they’re easy to understand. Be prepared to make adjustments based on their input to enhance both the effectiveness and clarity of your signage.

Effective signage does more than serve a practical purpose; it’s essential for making multi-unit properties feel inviting and well-organized. By following local regulations, ensuring visibility, and maintaining a consistent design, you can significantly enhance the overall appeal and functionality of your property.