ZSL London Zoo: Monkey Valley Large 3D Box Lettering For External Exhibit
In the early summer, returning client ZSL enlisted Glyphics to craft a welcoming sign for the imminent launch of Monkey Valley - a walkthrough experience nestled within a Grade II* listed structure adjacent to Regents Canal, formerly known as the Snowdon Aviary.
This architecturally iconic site, comprising four towering tetrahedrons, has been transformed to house a troop of Eastern black-and-white colobus monkeys, part of a critical breeding programme aimed at safeguarding the species from the threats of deforestation.
Positioned just outside the usual confines of the main zoo site, the tree-top attraction necessitates a notable deviation from visitor routes, so an eye-catching, inviting sign would be essential to guide people to the newly opened sanctuary.
Perched 80 feet above the cityscape, the enclosure invites visitors to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the Primrose Hill area, immersing them in the world of these endangered primates as they lounge and lunge in a specially planted verdant monkey habitat, complete with cascading waterfall.
Just outside the exhibit lies a tranquil picnic area, particularly designed for families with young children to relax and enjoy the serene environment.
Earmarked for placement between both of these settings, the signage required a robust build that would embody the playfulness of primates in spirit, while in practical terms, being able to withstand the energetic explorations of small folk.
In response, our team developed a dynamic design with bold aesthetics that would resonate with the brief, featuring bright colours and rounded lettering to ensure safety by eliminating any sharp edges in the actual structure.
After consultations with the zoo's structural engineers and collaborating closely with the other contractors on site, we constructed and erected a freestanding stainless steel sign that functions as a beacon for the zoo's latest addition, while becoming part of the furniture, enduring frequent interactions from curious kids.
To make this happen in real terms, technical drawings were produced, and after extensive wind load assessments by a specialist, we determined the robust foundations necessary for the sign's integrity and longevity. Facing a tight deadline for an August 2023 unveiling, we diligently coordinated with the landscaping team to excavate and prepare the substructure, embedding the leg posts with chemical fittings and securing the horizontal supports for the letters. The outcome is a striking landmark that delights little ones, inciting their inquisitiveness and calling attention to the conservation efforts on display.
FAQs - ZSL London Zoo: Monkey Valley
Absolutely. We specialise in crafting durable outdoor signs from materials that can withstand the elements, tailored to match your exhibit's theme and withstand the British weather. Contact us to discuss your outdoor signage needs.
Our large scale outdoor signs designed for visibility and durability. Our key offerings include hand painted signs, hollow tray signs, and 3D or flat cut lettering or graphics.
It's important to note that the installation process for these signs may require specific considerations - particularly the accessibility and reachability of the intended installation surface, and depending on the size and location of the sign, you might need to secure planning permission or coordinate temporary closures of adjacent areas, such as pavements or roads.
We guide our clients through the necessary permissions and safety regulations for outdoor sign installations. If you're looking for comprehensive support, we're here to help. Give us a ring to chat about what you have in mind, and we can discuss how best to manage the practical requirements for your project.
Just like they did for Monkey Valley, our design team brings playfulness and practicality together to produce custom signs that meet your brief, whether you want them to build upon your own ideas or to start a concept from scratch - a simple conversation with us can begin work on bespoke signage for you today.
We create carefully considered, aesthetically aligned, quality signage to guide people intuitively on the journeys you’ve laid out for them. By integrating clear navigation, concise exhibit insights and consistent branding elements, our signs weave a visual narrative into the fabric of your interiors and exteriors, transforming them into immersive spaces.
For child-friendly signage, safety and engagement are our priorities. With this project that meant designing a sign that’s 3D in structure so that once in place, it would essentially become a climbable installation to complement the interactive nature of the sanctuary and its surroundings.
In this instance, we built rounded off lettering from robust materials and finished them in multiple bright colourways. Textured builds and illuminated signage are also strong considerations for this target market - let us know if you want signage that speaks to a particular demographic, we’ll be happy to tailor our solutions to it.
3D signs are an excellent option for outdoor settings. Extremely legible, physically profound and creatively powerful - they’re a very effective embodiment of branding within the natural and built environment, often pulling passers-by in.
Our range at Glyphics includes versatile options like wall mounted, freestanding or post mounted logos and lettering, as well as pavement signs, projecting signs, hanging signs and panel signs, from directories through to plaques. The type/s of outdoor signage that's best for your needs will depend on your specific goals, location, and budget. Reach out to us to discuss your bespoke signage solution.
The creation and installation timeline for your signs will depend on the complexity of the design, the approval process and the mutual schedules of all parties involved. It's best to contact us directly for an accurate estimate.
We manage everything from wind load assessments by structural engineers to coordinating with on-site teams, ensuring that each sign is as sturdy as it is striking. Looking at a project with technical requirements? Let our experienced team handle the details.
We wholeheartedly encourage the customisation of signs with client or in-house design work, and take pride in building bespoke representations of your brand or message. Here's how you can start the process:
Initial Designs: Begin by sending us your draft ideas. This could include any drawings, digital concepts, or a simple description of what you envision for your sign.
Consultation: Our team will review your design, assessing its feasibility considering factors such as material suitability, fabrication techniques, and installation considerations.
Recommendations: If there are aspects of your design that aren't feasible, don't worry - we will propose adjustments or alternative solutions to help bring your idea to life, while maintaining the design's core elements.
So, feel free to share your design ideas with us. We're excited to collaborate with you and create a sign that aligns with your vision.
We're here to guide you every step of the way, so no design = no problem. Whatever message you'd like your sign to communicate, we'll collaborate with you to devise an optimal solution. Our team will consider the sign's intended environment and purpose to develop a design that's both aesthetically appealing and effective in its function.
Definitely. We ensure that your signs are not only well designed, but also effectively utilised with optimum placement.
And, if you have a comprehensive signage package, we can work with you to develop a complete strategy that takes into account the flow of visitor traffic, key points of interest, and accessibility requirements as part of our wayfinding consultation service. Contact us for more information.
