so. . . i'm working on some explanatory exhibit signage for an area that is rather dimly lit. each panel will only have a few sentences at most and so far i'm looking at sans serif typefaces that will be at least 36 pt - any suggestions on something that could possibly work reversed out or is it ridiculous to even consider light text on a dark background under not awesome lighting?
I’m sure you could make it work if you use typefaces designed for signage systems. FFInfo, Frutiger, Clearview, and plenty of other fonts could work just fine. You might also think about printing on some kind of reflective paper, or maybe even getting a sign shop to help you out with these if you have the budget.
Clearview Hwy has the benefit of having a series of weights designed to be used in reverse. see here
You also might need to add a thin hairline around the letters, to compensate for the visual effect of the stem weights creeping in.
Of course the most important thing is to make a test sample(s) and try it in the actual space, or as close an approximation as you can find.
Jason C
In dim lighting it may be prudent to use dark letters on light backgrounds. What is confusingly referred to as Negative Contrast. The light background of the panel, especially if they are lighter than the wall color, may help readability.
As to size, I believe ADA guidelines specify 1 inch of cap height for every 50 ft of viewing distance.(I know this is what FHWA has built their spec on). Also remember not to go too bold. A maximum stem weight of 1:5 stroke width to height ratio is the boldest you should go. (also the boldest allowed in the ADA spec)
That 1 inch cap height spec refers to all caps settings. IF you use mixed case you should go larger.
James
Do you have a link to the ADA spec? That might make for interesting reading.
ADA site here
However as I understand the ADA law, the requirements apply to signs identifying permanent spaces in buildings. I'm guessing that the signs in question would be supplying information about an exhibit, for instance identifying an artwork's title and artist. In a circumstance like that, the informational sign is not required to adhere to the ADA standard, although the sign identifying the name of the exhibit room (as well as Men's room, etc), would be required to comply.
As James mentions, even if the law doesn't require these signs to comply, the spec is still a useful guideline for any signs to ensure your signs can be read by a broad section of the population.
Jason C
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