Kewadin Casinos is a 319-room hotel and 30,000-square-foot convention center in beautiful Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
As part of a major renovation, Pro Image Design was tasked with redesigning the casino’s exterior signage to create a more modern, eye-catching display to elevate its brand. The configuration of the building allowed for two reverse halo-lit channel letter signs to be installed above the main entrance, and a third sign was fabricated and installed over the east entrance to the hotel and convention center. We also installed multiple EMCs (Electronic Messaging Centers) in the parking garage bays and large-scale advertising banners on the exterior of the building. Bringing this bold design to life was no easy feat as it involved coordinating complex schedules, integrating LED technology, and navigating Northern Michigan’s unpredictable weather.
What is a Reverse Halo Lit Channel Letter Sign?
A reverse halo-lit channel letter sign features a unique lighting technique that illuminates the area around the letters rather than the letters themselves. This creates a dramatic, glowing effect that gives the letters a floating appearance against the building’s surface. The effect is particularly striking at night, making the sign a beacon that can be seen from a distance. The channel letters were designed to be both bold and sophisticated, aligning with the contemporary image of the casino.
Design and Technological Challenges
A couple of the biggest challenges in this project were the sheer scale of the signs and gaining access to their install locations. Designed to span large portions of the casino’s exterior, the signs needed to be large enough to command attention but still balanced and proportionate to the building. They also had to be structurally sound to withstand the elements, including wind and snow. Installing the 20’ wide signage required specialized equipment and an experienced crew of installers.
Integrating LED Technology
The casino wanted to incorporate LED technology into the sign, ensuring energy efficiency and longevity with a vibrant reverse halo effect. LEDs offer several advantages, including reduced power consumption, longer lifespan, and brighter illumination. Integrating the full-range RGB lighting required careful consideration of the spacing and placement of LEDs within each letter to ensure the glow was even and visually striking. Careful calibration of each system allowed us to synchronize the color changes and effects between the signs producing a harmonious light display.
Coordination with Builders and Vendors
The complexity of the renovation project meant that coordination with multiple contractors and vendors was essential. The sign’s installation was tied to the overall renovation schedule, requiring precise timing to avoid delays. Builders working on the renovation had to ensure that the necessary structural elements for the sign’s mounting were in place and fabricators had to craft the letters to the exact specifications. At the same time, LED suppliers had to deliver the right materials on schedule. Synchronizing these different timelines and managing last-minute changes required meticulous project management and open lines of communication between all parties involved.
Final Installation and Impact
This project showcases how modern technology and creative design can elevate branding and signage in large-scale renovation efforts. The glowing sign is a powerful marketing tool, capturing attention day and night and providing the casino with a distinctive visual identity that enhances its overall aesthetic.
Interested in creating bold, eye-catching signage for your facility? Contact us today to learn how we can bring your vision to life.
