Brief
Austin Reynolds were selected to deliver a bespoke signage package for the newly constructed Three Rivers Academy, working closely with the client and architects. The primary objective was to develop a creative, visually impactful signage scheme that would reflect the school’s modern architectural style, which featured sharp lines and clean finishes. The signage needed to enhance both the internal and external environment, provide clear wayfinding, and align with the building’s sharp-edged aesthetics and colour palette.
Solution
The project encompassed a diverse range of materials and sign types, all custom designed to harmonise with the school’s architecture and interior design:
Wayfinding & Vinyl Supergraphics
Large vinyl supergraphics were applied throughout the school to provide intuitive wayfinding. These featured sharp, angular shapes and arrows that mirrored the building’s architectural geometry. The graphics were colour coordinated with interior walls and furnishings to create seamless visual integration. Text overlays made the direction finding functional yet dynamic.
External Signage
A key visual element was the external school’s name and logo, installed on the front elevation using a discreet rail mounting system. The rails were powder coated to match the wall finish, making them nearly invisible and giving the letters a "floating" appearance that made the branding pop. The main building name signage consisted of powder-coated aluminium flat cut letters, offering durability and a clean, high-end finish.
Acrylic Room Signs
Each room was equipped with acrylic door signs, custom cut to match the building’s angular style. These signs were colour coded according to building blocks, helping staff and students navigate the facility while reinforcing the internal zoning system.
Additional Signage Elements
Aluminium composite panels were used for various functional and directional signs around the school.
Car park signage was also supplied to assist with vehicle flow and safety.
Prior to the school’s opening, a stainless steel plaque was produced for the unveiling ceremony. The plaque was etched and infilled with the school’s name and opening details a classic, lasting feature to commemorate the occasion.
Line markings were applied in designated areas to manage foot and vehicle traffic, particularly in external car park.
Outcome
The final signage package for Three Rivers Academy was a standout success, both aesthetically and functionally. By closely aligning with the architectural design language of the school from sharp rooflines to colour themes, Austin Reynolds delivered a cohesive, modern signage system that enhanced the user experience across the entire site.
The vinyl supergraphics and acrylic signs added strong visual identity and intuitive navigation within the school, while the external signage provided a bold and professional entrance statement. The “floating” effect achieved with the hidden rail system impressed both the client and visitors, elevating the external brand presence.
The commemorative plaque added a touch of prestige to the school’s opening ceremony, and the car park and exterior wayfinding ensured safety and clarity for students, staff, and visitors alike.
Overall, the project demonstrated Austin Reynolds’ ability to combine creativity, precision, and functionality into a tailored signage solution. The client was extremely pleased with the outcome, and the signage now plays a key role in reinforcing the school's identity and enhancing its modern learning environment.
