Home / Projects / Block
offices & co-workingproject3dacrylichand paintedplaques+directoriesprinted vinylwall signswooden
A Bold Rebrand

Block approached Glyphics via OEB Architects with a clear brief, a vivid colour scheme, and a tight turnaround time. Their goal: to transform their newly renovated workspace with bright office signage, printed vinyl wall graphics, and consistent brand messaging that would elevate their impact from the moment clients walked through the door.

What began with logos and plaques quickly grew in scope. Delighted with our initial approach, Block extended the project beyond its original month-long timeline. The expanded brief incorporated 3D acrylic shapes, powder-coated aluminium lettering, and bespoke hand-painted signwriting—each installation crafted to characterise and connect the space in Block’s distinctive visual language, proving how custom workplace graphics can completely re-energise an office.

Hand-painted wall graphic in progress – A close-up of a signwriter painting bold red typographic shapes onto a white brick wall at Block’s Shoreditch HQ.
Red wall graphic with company values – Large-scale red vinyl wall graphic reading “Our Purpose: Inspiring change. Empower...” in Block’s signature brand typography.
Yellow geometric wall feature – Minimalist yellow acrylic wall panel in a bold geometric form, adding a pop of colour to Block’s office interior.
Open-plan modern office with branded wall – Bright, open-plan workspace featuring white desks, industrial columns, and a red wall graphic with Block’s purpose statement.
Blue wall with white 3D lettering – White dimensional lettering mounted on a deep blue wall at Block’s headquarters.
Exterior BLOCK logo sign – Rectangular acrylic panel with the BLOCK logo in red and white, mounted against an exposed brick wall.
Nelson Mandela quote wall graphic – Blue wall-mounted panel featuring Nelson Mandela’s portrait and the quote “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” positioned above a bookshelf.
Close-up of yellow geometric wall panel – Detailed view of a yellow angular wall feature, adding a bold accent to Block’s interior design.
Close-up of red painted wall graphic – Macro shot of a hand-painted red wall with white typographic detail, showing the texture of the brick surface.
‘Imagine’ painted wall feature – Large red geometric shape painted on white brick with the word “Imagine.” in bold white typography.
Mustard orange and white wall graphic with brand message – Wall graphic reading “Technology that changes everything” applied to an angled panel in Block’s office.
Blue wall with brand statement – Dark blue wall panel featuring the phrase “Driven by a belief in better.” in bold white lettering.
Hand-painted wall graphic in progress – A close-up of a signwriter painting bold red typographic shapes onto a white brick wall at Block’s Shoreditch HQ.
Red wall graphic with company values – Large-scale red vinyl wall graphic reading “Our Purpose: Inspiring change. Empower...” in Block’s signature brand typography.
Yellow geometric wall feature – Minimalist yellow acrylic wall panel in a bold geometric form, adding a pop of colour to Block’s office interior.
Open-plan modern office with branded wall – Bright, open-plan workspace featuring white desks, industrial columns, and a red wall graphic with Block’s purpose statement.
Blue wall with white 3D lettering – White dimensional lettering mounted on a deep blue wall at Block’s headquarters.
Exterior BLOCK logo sign – Rectangular acrylic panel with the BLOCK logo in red and white, mounted against an exposed brick wall.
Nelson Mandela quote wall graphic – Blue wall-mounted panel featuring Nelson Mandela’s portrait and the quote “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” positioned above a bookshelf.
Close-up of yellow geometric wall panel – Detailed view of a yellow angular wall feature, adding a bold accent to Block’s interior design.
Close-up of red painted wall graphic – Macro shot of a hand-painted red wall with white typographic detail, showing the texture of the brick surface.
‘Imagine’ painted wall feature – Large red geometric shape painted on white brick with the word “Imagine.” in bold white typography.
Mustard orange and white wall graphic with brand message – Wall graphic reading “Technology that changes everything” applied to an angled panel in Block’s office.
Blue wall with brand statement – Dark blue wall panel featuring the phrase “Driven by a belief in better.” in bold white lettering.
Hand-painted wall graphic in progress – A close-up of a signwriter painting bold red typographic shapes onto a white brick wall at Block’s Shoreditch HQ.
Red wall graphic with company values – Large-scale red vinyl wall graphic reading “Our Purpose: Inspiring change. Empower...” in Block’s signature brand typography.
Yellow geometric wall feature – Minimalist yellow acrylic wall panel in a bold geometric form, adding a pop of colour to Block’s office interior.
Open-plan modern office with branded wall – Bright, open-plan workspace featuring white desks, industrial columns, and a red wall graphic with Block’s purpose statement.
Blue wall with white 3D lettering – White dimensional lettering mounted on a deep blue wall at Block’s headquarters.
Exterior BLOCK logo sign – Rectangular acrylic panel with the BLOCK logo in red and white, mounted against an exposed brick wall.
Nelson Mandela quote wall graphic – Blue wall-mounted panel featuring Nelson Mandela’s portrait and the quote “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” positioned above a bookshelf.
Close-up of yellow geometric wall panel – Detailed view of a yellow angular wall feature, adding a bold accent to Block’s interior design.
Close-up of red painted wall graphic – Macro shot of a hand-painted red wall with white typographic detail, showing the texture of the brick surface.
‘Imagine’ painted wall feature – Large red geometric shape painted on white brick with the word “Imagine.” in bold white typography.
Mustard orange and white wall graphic with brand message – Wall graphic reading “Technology that changes everything” applied to an angled panel in Block’s office.
Blue wall with brand statement – Dark blue wall panel featuring the phrase “Driven by a belief in better.” in bold white lettering.
Designing Identity Via Signs For A Shoreditch Office

Situated just around the corner from Glyphics on Shepherdess Walk near Old Street, Block reached out to us seeking neighbourly expertise. Looking to beautify the brick interiors of their warehouse HQs and reinforce their business identity in freshly spruced up offices, we set about developing a captivating yet practical solution tailored to them.

From power statements echoing Block’s core values, to vibrant graphics translating their digital language into physical form, our signage package delivers the impactful visual presence Block requested. The result is a space defined by crisp typography and a striking primary colour palette, gracing doors and walls throughout this previously plain whitewashed interior. At a higher level, the design elevates the environment with clean lines, cohesive messaging, and a professional sense of coherence.

Blue vinyl wall graphic with Block values – Printed vinyl sign on a deep blue wall featuring the vertical BLOCK logo and four core values: “Stand together. Be responsible. Think differently. Get excited.” in crisp white lettering.
Geometric vinyl wall graphic with mission statement – Printed vinyl sign combining bold red, white, and navy blue shapes, displaying the text “Digital futures. Delivered together.” in Block’s signature brand style.
Blue vinyl wall graphic with Block values – Printed vinyl sign on a deep blue wall featuring the vertical BLOCK logo and four core values: “Stand together. Be responsible. Think differently. Get excited.” in crisp white lettering.
Geometric vinyl wall graphic with mission statement – Printed vinyl sign combining bold red, white, and navy blue shapes, displaying the text “Digital futures. Delivered together.” in Block’s signature brand style.
Blue vinyl wall graphic with Block values – Printed vinyl sign on a deep blue wall featuring the vertical BLOCK logo and four core values: “Stand together. Be responsible. Think differently. Get excited.” in crisp white lettering.
Geometric vinyl wall graphic with mission statement – Printed vinyl sign combining bold red, white, and navy blue shapes, displaying the text “Digital futures. Delivered together.” in Block’s signature brand style.

Colour Matching Across Materials

Block’s signature red was the linchpin of the visual identity - but it wasn’t a straightforward RAL sync. We worked closely with the architects to land on the truest match to their chosen Pantone, then replicated it consistently across three different processes:

- Etched & paint-filled plaques

- Powder-coated aluminium letters

- Spray-painted MDF forms

This precision was critical to that sense of visual cohesion and in strengthening brand recognition.

Solving Access Challenges Early

One of the main logo installs was on a tall wall, tucked away on the lower level. Knowing this, we scoped out accessibility options well before install. Rather than navigating narrow stairwells with kit in tow, we made use of Block's underground car park to bring in tools and signage directly. Predetermining the logistics beforehand keeps installation days drama-free.

Block's spacious office interior with neutral finishes, modern furnishings, and a striking red staircase leading to an upper level, viewed from a communal work area.
Printed vinyl wall graphic in a bold orange angular design, applied to a white wall beside a potted plant in a light-filled hallway.
Close-up view of exposed brickwork and industrial ceiling elements, highlighting the building’s architectural character.
Wide view of a communal kitchen space where a Glyphics signwriter is hand-painting the words “Imagine,” “Believe,” and “Achieve” in red, yellow, and blue on a white brick wall behind a long counter.
Block's spacious office interior with neutral finishes, modern furnishings, and a striking red staircase leading to an upper level, viewed from a communal work area.
Printed vinyl wall graphic in a bold orange angular design, applied to a white wall beside a potted plant in a light-filled hallway.
Close-up view of exposed brickwork and industrial ceiling elements, highlighting the building’s architectural character.
Wide view of a communal kitchen space where a Glyphics signwriter is hand-painting the words “Imagine,” “Believe,” and “Achieve” in red, yellow, and blue on a white brick wall behind a long counter.
Block's spacious office interior with neutral finishes, modern furnishings, and a striking red staircase leading to an upper level, viewed from a communal work area.
Printed vinyl wall graphic in a bold orange angular design, applied to a white wall beside a potted plant in a light-filled hallway.
Close-up view of exposed brickwork and industrial ceiling elements, highlighting the building’s architectural character.
Wide view of a communal kitchen space where a Glyphics signwriter is hand-painting the words “Imagine,” “Believe,” and “Achieve” in red, yellow, and blue on a white brick wall behind a long counter.

Mid-Project Expansion  

Before final install, Block’s marketing lead Anna Bancroft got in touch with additional ideas and we were happy to oblige. Drawing inspiration from a past Glyphics project (Accurx), she envisioned a more immersive office environment. After a full site survey, we mapped out an expanded signage package that included:

- Large-scale wall vinyls with motivational type 

- 10mm thick acrylic signage  

- Painted signwriting in three vibrant RALs  

- A wooden plaque quoting Nelson Mandela, made bespoke to fit within a bookcase  

This phase of the fit-out further unified the space, bringing typography, colour and brand messaging into alignment throughout.

Unexpected Turns 

Painting directly onto brick walls proved slower than expected, demanding meticulous attention and dogged perseverance. The highly absorbent surface required multiple coats to achieve the desired vibrancy and crispness, ultimately necessitating an additional site visit to perfect the finish. Despite this hurdle, the overall installation proceeded seamlessly, maintaining the project’s momentum and high standards.

Close-up of red 3D mdf wall feature – Detailed shot of a bold red three-dimensional acrylic shape mounted on a light textured meeting room wall at Block’s HQ.
‘Digital futures. Delivered together.’ wall graphic – Printed vinyl wall sign in navy blue lettering on a clean white background, featuring Block’s mission statement.
Close-up of painted red brick texture – Macro view of a vibrant red-painted brick wall, highlighting the texture and finish.
Signwriter painting red ‘Imagine’ text – Hand-painting in progress on a white brick wall, applying Block’s “Imagine” typographic graphic in vivid red.
View through frosted glass into a meeting room with blue 3D mdf feature – Looking through a frosted glass partition into a meeting room, revealing a geometric blue three-dimensional mdf shape mounted on the far wall.
‘Driven by a belief in better.’ vinyl wall sign – Blue feature wall with white printed vinyl text displaying one of Block’s core brand statements.
Close-up of red 3D mdf wall feature – Detailed shot of a bold red three-dimensional acrylic shape mounted on a light textured meeting room wall at Block’s HQ.
‘Digital futures. Delivered together.’ wall graphic – Printed vinyl wall sign in navy blue lettering on a clean white background, featuring Block’s mission statement.
Close-up of painted red brick texture – Macro view of a vibrant red-painted brick wall, highlighting the texture and finish.
Signwriter painting red ‘Imagine’ text – Hand-painting in progress on a white brick wall, applying Block’s “Imagine” typographic graphic in vivid red.
View through frosted glass into a meeting room with blue 3D mdf feature – Looking through a frosted glass partition into a meeting room, revealing a geometric blue three-dimensional mdf shape mounted on the far wall.
‘Driven by a belief in better.’ vinyl wall sign – Blue feature wall with white printed vinyl text displaying one of Block’s core brand statements.
Close-up of red 3D mdf wall feature – Detailed shot of a bold red three-dimensional acrylic shape mounted on a light textured meeting room wall at Block’s HQ.
‘Digital futures. Delivered together.’ wall graphic – Printed vinyl wall sign in navy blue lettering on a clean white background, featuring Block’s mission statement.
Close-up of painted red brick texture – Macro view of a vibrant red-painted brick wall, highlighting the texture and finish.
Signwriter painting red ‘Imagine’ text – Hand-painting in progress on a white brick wall, applying Block’s “Imagine” typographic graphic in vivid red.
View through frosted glass into a meeting room with blue 3D mdf feature – Looking through a frosted glass partition into a meeting room, revealing a geometric blue three-dimensional mdf shape mounted on the far wall.
‘Driven by a belief in better.’ vinyl wall sign – Blue feature wall with white printed vinyl text displaying one of Block’s core brand statements.
Conclusion

Block’s refreshed office now communicates the company's identity with confidence - combining bold colours, precise typography, and thoughtfully crafted messaging to unite and animate every corner. What began as a simple brief evolved into a holistic package of signage that fully embodies the company’s ethos.

This project reflects Glyphics at our best: responding creatively to complex challenges, translating vision into finely executed installations, and leaving behind spaces that resonate with brand authenticity.

Office signs

Spray-painted MDF wall letters – Large vertical BLOCK logo in vivid red, mounted high on a white-painted brick wall and reflected in adjacent glass panelling, creating a bold focal point in the bright, airy interior.

FAQs

How did Block find Glyphics?

While we are actually neighbours with Block, we were contacted by OEB Architects, who were overseeing the HQ refurbishment on behalf of Block. They reached out with a small but snappy brief, a bold palette, and a clear vision.

What was the brief?

Initially, Block needed external and internal logos and plaques to embed their updated brand identity into their newly renovated HQ. The focus was on delivering strong visual impact through precisely colour-matched materials and crisp messaging.

How did the project evolve?

After seeing the early results, Block’s marketing lead got in touch with ideas to go further. Inspired by one of our past projects, the brief grew to include large scale wall vinyls, acrylic letters, hand painted alcoves, and even a bespoke plaque featuring a Nelson Mandela quote.

What challenges came up?

Matching the bright red brand colour across different materials and production methods - etching, paint-filling, powder-coating and spraying all behave differently. And painting directly onto exposed brick walls - beautiful in theory, but thirsty in practice; it took multiple coats and an extra visit to get it spot on.

What materials were used?

A mix of premium finishes:

Why was printed vinyl chosen for this project?

Printed vinyl comes into its own when you need a colour that’s not readily available. We colour-match using the CMYK process, printing onto a white vinyl base to achieve the exact tone, whether as a block design, or an intricate vector pattern. Printed Vinyl also excels when you need to blow up imagery with shadows and shading - large format digital printers can churn out colour gradients onto white, transparent, or optically clear vinyl to varying effects.The end product comes with a protective, clear over-laminate in either matt, satin or gloss finish, and can be cut up or used to create full length window displays, or 'wall papers' as has been done here for Block.

What is the benefit of using acrylic?

Acrylic (aka acrylic glass, perspex, plexiglass, and PMMA or polymethyl methacrylate) is valued for its clarity, durability, and versatility. It can be cut, moulded, and printed onto, producing text, panels, or graphics that are either flat cut or thick set. Thicker acrylic creates a 3D effect, ideal for stand-out wall or wayfinding signs in high-traffic areas.

When is hand painting the right choice for a business sign?

When it’s time to make a statement that says “we are unique” and to instil character for a distinctive look and feel. Our skilled signwriters can work on most surfaces, delivering everything from full wall murals to fine standalone lettering.

Projects have included feature walls for shops, floor graphics for cultural venues, wall murals for offices, and wayfinding for spaces ranging from coffee shops to multi-level workplaces.

Whether your style is creative or corporate, hand-painted signs signal quality and craft. So if you’re looking to implement artisanal signs, we can make a custom solution that works for you and your audience. 

What makes this project unique?

Beyond the polished execution, it’s how the branding integrates into the fabric of the space. Every floor, wall and alcove contributes to a cohesive experience - built around Block’s identity and values. It’s not just signage; it’s a spatial extension of who they are.

How long does it take to produce and install signage?

Timelines vary depending on complexity, but we always aim to accommodate your schedule. We provide an accurate estimate during consultation and keep you updated throughout. The original scope for this project was completed in a month; the expanded brief took a few additional weeks, including approvals, site visits, production, and phased installation.

What was the end result?

A dynamic, professional HQ with a bold visual language that reflects Block’s ethos - clean typography, unified colourwork, and brand messaging that makes a statement in every room. Block has since invited us back for additional small signage updates as the space evolves.

How do I start the process of working with Glyphics?

Whether the designs are client-led or in-house, we take pride in building bespoke signs for you. Here's how to start the process:

  1. Initial Designs: Send us your ideas—sketches, digital concepts, or a simple description. Brand guidelines are welcome.

  2. Consultation: We assess feasibility, considering materials, fabrication, and installation.

  3. Recommendations: If adjustments are needed, we’ll propose solutions that retain your design’s essence.

Share your design ideas with us, and let's bring your vision to life with tailor-made signage.

Latest articles
Maximising Office Spaces: A Guide for Effective Signage
Signage SOS: Solving Common Business Visibility Problems in London
How To Hand Paint & Gold Leaf A Glass Sign
More articles
Some of our awesome clients
Workspace Group logoCo Space logoOzone Coffee Roasters logoStrong Roots logoThe Hackett Group logoGrabthai logoEtsy logoPlaystation logoThe Croc logoCenttrip logoSadler's Wells logoBP logoHerbert Smith Freehills logoNational Crime Agency logoZSL London Zoo logoNonsense logoInterchange Coworking logo30 St Mary Axe logo
THREE DECADES AS LONDON’S TRUSTED SIGN MAKER
QUALITY BESPOKE SIGNAGE

From independent businesses and private offices to public buildings and cultural centres, we serve organisations across the UK with signs made using both traditional skills and contemporary technologies.

As a company built on testimonials and repeat custom, we nurture strong relationships with our clients from the very start.

Our ordering process is simple and hassle-free:

  1. Contact us through the form to discuss your design needs and receive a quote.

  2. Our team of experts will determine the best materials and construction methods.

  3. Feedback or approve the design and quote.

  4. Relax while we craft your custom sign.

  5. We'll handle installation and ensure everything is to your satisfaction.

Get a quote
Name
Company
Work email
Work phone number
Company size
Number of signs required
When do you need the sign(s)?
Upload relevant design files
Installation address
Job description
Resources
Our SignsYour SpaceInstallationLarge Signs
Company
AboutCareersPrivacyTerms & Conditions
Social
InstagramFacebookLinkedIn
London's trusted sign maker since 1985
© 2023 Glyphics Ltd.