The Subtle Power of Signage – and Why Vintage Looks Are on the Rise

Signage is everywhere. You encounter it every day, often without even noticing. It guides you into shops, up floors, or along roads to reach your destination. Even something as simple as a house number is a form of signage.

Whatever your signage needs, there’s a wide range of options available—from bold neon and retro bulb signs to sleek UV bonding and versatile vinyl graphics. Each serves a distinct purpose and adds character to a space or brand.

One of the most popular trends right now is signage that looks older than it actually is.

The Appeal of Aged Signage

Signs can naturally weather over time, particularly those exposed to the elements. But ageing can also be intentional—designed to evoke nostalgia, lend character, or create a certain atmosphere. It’s a look that’s increasingly in demand, especially for shopfronts, hospitality venues and bespoke interiors.

At A1DeSIGNS, we’re often asked to create aged effects on metal and wood, and we’ve developed techniques that deliver some truly striking finishes.

We can transform a fresh sheet of wood to look as though it has drifted ashore after years at sea. Metal panels and lettering can be given the appearance of having weathered years of sun, wind and rain—achieved through processes like controlled rusting or tarnishing.

The benefit of ageing a new sign rather than sourcing a vintage one is that you get the best of both worlds: the charm of something old, with the strength and durability of modern materials. A rusted steel panel may look antique, but it retains all the rigidity of new metal. Similarly, aged wood can achieve a time-worn look without any of the structural concerns that come with genuinely weathered timber.

If you're interested in exploring aged signage or want to learn more about maintaining your existing signs, we’d be happy to help. Take a look at more of our articles or get in touch to chat about your next project.