WHAT IF ALL SIGNS WERE DESIGNED FOR EVERYONE TO READ?
“If clear means cheaper and my food gets here hot, I’m all for it. Fancy fonts can stay on wedding invitations, not street signs.”
Couldn’t agree more about the pizza guy. I had a similar thing with a grocery delivery—driver called me from the next block over because my address plaque was “elegant script” that looked more like ancient runes in the dark. Not exactly helpful when you’re hungry.
Honestly, I don’t get why anyone would pay extra for numbers that are hard to read. If you’re spending money, shouldn’t it be on something that actually works? I mean, sure, there’s curb appeal, but if nobody can find your house, what’s the point? Plus, plain block numbers are usually cheaper and last longer since there’s less paint or weird materials to chip off.
I get wanting things to look nice, but function should come first. Maybe keep the fancy stuff for inside the house where only you have to decipher it. Outside? Give me big, bold numbers any day... especially when takeout’s involved.
WHAT IF ALL SIGNS WERE DESIGNED FOR EVERYONE TO READ?
I get the appeal of unique details, but honestly, I’ve seen this play out on projects way too often. Once had a client who wanted these ornate, script-style numbers for their new modern home—looked cool up close, but from the street? Total mystery. Even the mail carrier joked about needing a decoder ring. There’s a reason airports and hospitals stick to bold, sans-serif fonts: clarity saves time (and sometimes sanity). Design can still be beautiful without sacrificing function. Sometimes the simplest solution is also the most thoughtful.
WHAT IF ALL SIGNS WERE DESIGNED FOR EVERYONE TO READ?
I totally get the urge to go ornate—there’s something about a hand-painted script that just feels special. But here’s how I’ve balanced style and readability on projects:
1. Pick a clean, legible font as your base (think Helvetica or Futura).
2. Layer in subtle details—maybe metallic finishes or backlighting—to add that luxury vibe.
3. Test it from the street, not just up close. If you can’t read it at a glance, tweak it.
Honestly, even the fanciest homes look better when guests can actually find them without squinting.
Honestly, even the fanciest homes look better when guests can actually find them without squinting.
I get where you’re coming from, but sometimes that “hard to read” sign is part of the mystique. There’s a certain charm in having to look twice—almost like an inside secret for those who know. Isn’t there value in a little exclusivity, especially with luxury properties? Not every sign needs to shout its message from across the street.
There’s a certain charm in having to look twice—almost like an inside secret for those who know.
Funny, that actually reminds me of my old place. We had this tiny, hand-carved number sign hidden behind a rose bush. Friends joked it was like a treasure hunt every time they visited. Sure, it felt special, but I do wonder if the “secret” vibe is worth the confusion—especially when deliveries end up next door. Isn’t there a sweet spot between mystery and practicality?
