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Project Summary
1. What was the primary goal of the Somerset Mall Exterior & Interior Signage project?
The primary goal was to manufacture and install new exterior and interior signage as part of Somerset Mall's extensive renovation, with a focus on creating impactful exterior branding and functional interior wayfinding.
2. What were the key challenges faced during the project?
The project presented several key challenges that tested our team's skills and adaptability. We had to manage the intricacy of installing the massive 2.8m circular logo sign while adhering to the stringent JBCC contractual terms and construction project standards. Coordinating our work with the building contractor's schedule required careful planning and flexibility. The intense wind conditions in Somerset West necessitated extra attention to ensuring secure installation of all signage elements. Throughout the project, we had to maintain a delicate balance between meeting the aesthetic requirements outlined in the architect's plans and ensuring the structural integrity of each sign component. These challenges pushed us to innovate and collaborate effectively, ultimately leading to a successful project completion.
3. How long did the entire signage project take?
The project spanned approximately 5 months, from November 2023 to March 2024, with exterior signage installed in November-December 2023 and interior signage in February-March 2024.
4. What valuable lessons did you learn from this project?
This project served as a profound learning experience, offering valuable insights across multiple aspects of large-scale signage projects. It deepened our understanding of working within JBCC contract terms, emphasizing the critical importance of strict adherence to project timelines. We learned the immense value of proactive communication in effectively managing client expectations throughout the project lifecycle. The challenge of balancing aesthetic design with structural requirements in large-scale signage pushed us to innovate and refine our approach. Additionally, coordinating our complex installations within the context of a larger renovation project honed our skills in project management and inter-team collaboration. These lessons have not only enhanced our expertise but will also inform and improve our approach to future projects of similar scale and complexity.
At Romano Signs, we recently had the privilege of taking on a significant project: manufacturing and installing new exterior and interior signage for Somerset Mall as part of their extensive renovations from late 2023 into early 2024. This project presented unique challenges and opportunities, allowing us to showcase our expertise in large-scale signage solutions for one of Cape Town's most prominent shopping destinations.
Our task was to manufacture and install new exterior and interior signage for Somerset Mall's renovation project. The centerpiece of this project was two massive 2.8m circular logo signs with accompanying lettersets, which proved to be the most complex aspect of the job.
This project operated under JBCC (Joint Building Contracts Committee) terms, requiring us to adhere to specific contractual obligations typical of construction projects. Despite the added complexity, we were thrilled to contribute to the revitalization of such a large and prominent mall in Cape Town.
Our planning phase was guided by detailed architect plans and drawings, which we had to follow meticulously. These plans outlined the aesthetic requirements for the signage, but it was up to our team to determine the structural aspects of each sign component.
The project was divided into two main phases:
External signs installation (November and December 2023)
Internal signs installation (February and March 2024)
This phased approach required careful coordination and timing to align with the overall renovation schedule
The exterior signs were the most challenging components to manufacture due to their massive size. We constructed them with the following specifications:
Backing/casing made of aluminum for durability
Face made of acrylic with applied vinyl cutouts for visibility
Internal illumination for enhanced visibility
Letters manufactured using the same materials and techniques
The interior signage, while less complex, was crucial for the mall's functionality. It primarily consisted of wayfinding signage to guide visitors through the renovated space.
The installation phase required close coordination with the building contractor's schedule. We began with the lettersets, followed by the impressive 2.8m circular logo signs. This phase demanded specialized equipment, including a crane truck and a cherry picker, to ensure safe and accurate placement.
A critical consideration during installation was the intense wind conditions in Somerset West. We took extra care to secure the signs properly, ensuring they could withstand the elements.
The exterior signs, once installed, became a prominent feature visible from the N2 highway in both directions, serving as a landmark for the mall.
The following month, we moved on to the interior signage installation. This phase took several nights to complete, requiring precision and attention to detail to ensure all wayfinding elements were correctly placed.
Upon completion, we left the site feeling satisfied and proud of our team's accomplishment in bringing this large-scale project to fruition.
This project marked my first experience with a JBCC contract, which presented a learning curve in terms of project management.
Key takeaways include:
The importance of adhering strictly to the agreed-upon program
The value of proactive communication, especially regarding any schedule changes
The necessity of managing expectations throughout the project lifecycle
