Planning an office reception logo and signage system

Review the first visitor view

Stand where a visitor first enters and check what is visible behind reception. Consider the desk, lighting, furniture and sight lines as part of the sign location. A logo centred on a drawing may appear off balance when seen with the actual counter and surrounding finishes. Review a dimensioned visual of the whole wall rather than enlarging the artwork until it fills the available space.

Approve the material in the office lighting

Compare metal finishes, acrylic elements and illumination against the actual background. Check reflections and shadows from ceiling lights as well as the sign’s own lighting. Agree the appearance from nearby seating and circulation routes. Record colour references, letter depth, edge treatment and stand-off details so the installation can be assessed against more than a front-facing rendering.

Coordinate identification and wayfinding

List directories, floor identifiers, meeting rooms and departments alongside the brand logo. Agree destination names and the process for updating them. Navigation should remain clear for a person unfamiliar with the office. Use the brand identity as a common language, but allow information signs the text size, contrast and placement their reading task needs.

Prepare the occupied-site installation

Confirm working hours, reception access, power availability and restrictions on drilling or fixing to finished walls. Identify who approves artwork and who coordinates the facilities team. Agree the cleaning and handover requirements. For a phased office move, establish which signs must be ready at each stage and how temporary information will avoid confusing visitors before the final system is complete.

Checklist for your brief

• Visitor approach and wall elevation
• Approved logo and colours
• Material and lighting sample
• Directory and room-name schedule
• Facilities access and approval contacts

Common planning questions