By Tristan Allan
In designing this project, the team gathered inspiration from the park’s scenic views, as well as materials located around the area to create a captivating and contemporary signage system.
There is something to be said about the history in the lower mainland surrounding Vancouver. Canada is a young country, so maintaining a consistent sense of history unifies its people. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park showcases British Columbia’s rugged beauty and communicates that shared history in a breathtaking natural setting.
The park is a rare attraction that provides adventure enthusiasts a view like no other in the city. Its employees have a sense of pride for its history, and they consider it their responsibility to continue that legacy.
A unique opportunity
When TDH Experiential Fabricators, an architectural signage, display, and industrial art fabrication company based in Surrey, B.C., was approached with the opportunity to refurbish a unique and antiquated sign at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, the company jumped at the chance to add to the country’s heritage.
In designing this project, the team gathered inspiration from the park’s scenic views, as well as materials located around the area, such as bronze, steel, and wood, to create a captivating and contemporary signage system that complemented the look and feel of the environment. This approach allowed the shop to pay tribute to the built attractions within the park and its awe-inspiring landscape.
Creating a memorable piece
The goal was to take an old weathered sign and refurbish it using modern-day techniques, all while making sure to preserve its rustic look and historic feel.
By applying various creative techniques, the team blended different textures and materials to function in harmony with each other and the surrounding terrain. The first step in the process was to carefully remove the dilapidated old sign from the fascia so the letters could be repurposed in the new design. The letters were made from old tools and pieces of metal to create the wording ‘Loggers Grill.’ For example, an old hatchet was used to make the ‘L,’ and an old hammer handle was used to create the ‘E.’ These tools perfectly captured the nod to history the team wanted.
