Solingen, called the “City of Blades,” renowned for the manufacturing of fine swords, knives, scissors, and razors is the location for one of RSM’s international mixed-use projects.

Finding inspiration through the cultural landscape and industries of Solingen (heavy machinery, precision products, the colors of iron ore glow), RSM is scratching the surface to uncover the wealth of textures, patterns, and materials that make up this environment. This inspiration and research has strongly influenced a comprehensive sign program for this dynamic mixed use retail and entertainment center.

The sign family has been designed for maximum flexibility and clarity.  The signage uses a system of custom pictograms and icons to identify the many uses and create a clear messaging system, with a dual language system complementing this simple approach.  The material palette adds clarity to the system as well with different complementary materials being used to enhance each of the district’s characterstics.

The graphics family of signs is rapidly moving forward into schematics and design development and the RSM team continues to hone and refine the designs, while coordinating with the US and China based consultant team.