This quarter we’re taking a different approach to our conventional signage feature.

We’re focusing on a summer project series that includes signs and architectural features that we designed, fabricated and are now installing for Countryside Transportation Service.

The family-owned and operated trucking company is based in Sebewaing, which is 115 miles north of Detroit, in the heart of Michigan’s thumb area. They recently branched out with two additional service locations. While helping Countryside to achieve their signage goals, we’ve come to realize that when a business caters to big rigs, the extraordinary is expected with signage and brand identity. The first part of this project series entails architectural building features and a pylon style EMC sign.

Drawing attention to the building entrance was the goal, and we used a configuration of dimensional wall panels and custom canopies to create visual interest. Red wall panels, made of ACM were routed and formed to create an interlocking system with no visible fasteners. They wrap around the corner of the building and contour around doors and windows. The custom-built canopies are the crowning touch and were created utilizing fabricated aluminum I-beams with inner tubing supports and louvered accents. Routed aluminum lettering was added to finish the striking architectural feature.

The EMC sign includes a cabinet showcasing multiple layers of dimensional materials including ACM panels, perforated aluminum, solid aluminum sheeting and accents of acrylic faux rivets. Custom contour logo channels are face lit with white LEDs and reverse (halo) lit with red LEDs. The sign base includes 24v red border tubing, which highlights the sign’s profile and adds to the overall visual impact.

With this sign series, we’ve had learning opportunities as well as the chance to take advantage of new equipment and tactics. Engineering the panels to fit around the windows, doors and electrical junction boxes proved to be a challenge. Fortunately, we were able to program the trim elements into our new CNC folder to build custom steel trim accents, tying the dimensional panels back to the door frame for a seamless look. We also used perforated metal in the ACM panels, along with two-colored light sources inside the contour channels as unique features of the EMC sign.

Stay tuned for our newsletter in Quarter 4. We can’t wait to show you the rest of this project, and a new sign that is sure to become a showpiece.