As we begin another year of providing eye-catching signs and graphics to the businesses of Leeds, we thought it was the perfect time to delve into the world of signage trends. Staying ahead of design trends, in particular, is a great way for businesses to make an impactful statement with their signs. So, guided by unique insights from our Lead Designer Vinny, who celebrated an incredible 20 years with FASTSIGNS last year, today we’re looking at what’s trending in 2024.
From striking illuminated signs to the fascinating growth of AI and its impact on the design world, here’s more about how you can communicate your message through thoughtfully designed signs and graphics this year.
The growth of AI
AI technology burst onto the scene in a big way in 2023 – and it’s only set to get bigger this year. Vinny tells us that with AI, you can “generate images that don’t exist, get creative with text and manipulate images a lot quicker and with better results. Whatever you can describe with words, no matter how fantastical, AI will create in seconds. It will only get better and more ubiquitous.” It’s exciting stuff, and when used in the right way can not only produce great results but also free up designers from time-consuming and tedious tasks.
There could ultimately be a shift in perspective towards the use of AI in 2024, however, with Vinny suggesting the possibility of a “concerted move away from AI toward more humanised design”. As the novelty of the new technology wears off and people become more aware of AI, many businesses may begin to look for a more personalised, authentic touch. People connect with people, after all, and sometimes the human touch is irreplaceable.
Unique typography
While some fonts are classics for a reason, using a more unique – or even better, custom – typeface in your marketing can help your business make a huge impact. Vinny says “In terms of style, I think there is an amazing array of good-quality fonts at the moment. It's good to move away from the usual suspects and a font that's fit-for-purpose can really add value to a design.”
Bold minimalism is still big, so we predict sans serif fonts will continue to shine this year. They’re perfect for keeping the focus purely on your brand messaging, especially in communications related to wellness and sustainability.
Eco-friendly solutions
Sustainability has been gaining momentum for the past few years, and we think it will be even more difficult for brands to ignore in 2024. Consumers increasingly want to know that brands are doing their bit for the planet, and that extends to marketing and signage. At FASTSIGNS Leeds, we work with a carefully chosen group of suppliers who are continually innovating and introducing eco-friendly product options to the market – which is great news for our eco-conscious customers this coming year.
Many signage materials aren’t the kindest to the environment, and in cases when the sign doesn’t need to be long-lasting, PVC and similar unsustainable materials cause an unnecessary strain on the planet. Vinny says printing temporary signs on card is a great solution, saying that “obviously the ability to recycle is a major thing and whereas in the past temporary signs might have gone to landfill, they can now be recycled.” We often use card to print temporary signage for the vendors in Trinity Kitchen.
Cutting-edge laser technology
At FASTSIGNS Leeds, we’re always excited to get our hands on new technology, and last year we added a laser engraver to our arsenal. The laser engraver allows us to venture beyond more traditional signage materials and methods by intricately engraving and cutting signs with laser precision.
Laser engravers can be used to precisely cut or engrave a range of different materials, from wood and metal to acrylic and even paper – making them a valuable tool in the world of signage design and manufacturing. They can be used for door signs, plaques, personalised nameplates, wayfinding signage and so much more. They really push the boundaries of what’s possible when it comes to manufacturing signs that are both impactful and visually stunning, and we foresee them changing the way we create many signs in 2024.
Calmer environments with acoustic panels
The best signage combines aesthetics with functionality, and acoustic panelling offers a unique opportunity for signs to go beyond just the visual. Acoustic panels are designed to improve the acoustics of a space by getting rid of any unwanted noise. They can be used in a whole host of different spaces – like offices, commercial spaces, and schools and universities – to promote a quieter and calmer environment.
Using acoustic panelling in signage not only communicates a message visually but also serves a dual purpose by minimising surrounding noise and reducing echoes. We have recently used acoustic panelling at some University of Leeds sites and we’re currently testing it on the wall in our showroom, so we predict a rise in its popularity and adoption across the signage industry over the next few months.
Wall graphics
Some trends withstand the test of time, and we think wall graphics will continue to be popular throughout 2024. Wall graphics are the perfect way to foster brand identity, make a bold statement and create an immersive experience within a retail, educational or office space.
There are a lot of ways you can use wall graphics to make your statement, but we think 2024 will see a shift towards even more impactful designs. A wall is a huge canvas for creativity, and the options are almost endless. Vinny says, “Wall graphics are still something we do a lot of – we did some recently for BOXT that looked really cool with oversized images and dynamic use of logo elements.”
The world of design and signage is always evolving. 2024’s upcoming signage trends blend technology, sustainability and creativity in some fresh and exciting ways – and as always, we’re committed to staying at the forefront.
If you’d like to chat about the ways you can get your message seen in Leeds and West Yorkshire, we can help. Get in touch to find out how we can bring your vision to life and help you make a lasting impression in 2024.