Preserving signage can bring not only both joy to the passer-by but also dollars to the wiser developers.

Position, Position, Position | It should come as no surprise that during a mad flurry of economic activity and real estate development, the last thing on the minds of developers in typographic history. What the developers might not understand so clearly is that, even on a purely pragmatic level (ie. financial), it is in fact an asset to preserve the original type on buildings. It’s no trade secret that type adds character (ie.potential value) to original buildings, irrespective of their vintage. It is this appreciation of typography amongst the general public that has aided the growth of stores selling huge old letters and other remnants of signage to those who can afford their often high prices. It is surely ironic that these disconnected histories have to be purchased later rather than kept intact. Ultimately, it becomes an issue of education. Firstly, a basic education of developers of architectural history but secondly (and perhaps more importantly) the education of heritage organisations (particularly those included in consultation with councils and governments) to understand and appreciate the importance of signage as a valid form of visual cultural history.

Photography: Tim Mang