Add intrigue with halo lit signage
BY ELLIE DEES
Halo lit channel letters provide one of the most sophisticated looks in signage lighting. Halo lit letters (or reverse-lit letters) are created by lighting behind channel letters, usually against a flat mounting surface. When light reflects on the mounting surface, it makes letters and logos appear to glow or “pop” off a wall or signboard, creating an elegant, high-end esthetic.
Depth
Traditional signs are flat, or two-dimensional. Halo lighting techniques add the perception of depth. Deeper channel letters create an impressive 3D effect. They stand out during daylight hours but take on a stark, tall shadow at night. Backing light makes shallow halo-lit signs and signs with delicate, thinner fonts easy to read at night. And warmer white and colored light provide a soft, refined glow. Proper LED spacing and placement is key to providing a consistent look.
Versatility
Halo lit channel letters offer tremendous versatility. Mount LED modules like AgiLight’s thin, flat ULTRA 430 directly to the back of a channel letter in tight spaces, or use larger, powerful modules inside letters with a rear sign face. Run FlexRayz Neon tubes behind letters to create a gleaming neon halo effect. Or combine signage techniques by illuminating both the sign face and employing a halo effect. Color changing LEDs can be used to match corporate colors or design standards and to set the mood for different holidays or events.
Creativity
Color, size, shape, brightness and variety make halo lit channel letter options nearly limitless. Special effects can emphasize business specialties or tell a company’s story. Change colors where you use a logo inside one letter. A colored sign face can help provide readability during the day while the halo effect makes a sign pop at night. Or design a stunning custom layout by incorporating halo lit images, logos or even intricate scenes in your sign. BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse locations, for instance, feature a glorious beer-making mural illuminated by AgiLight’s warm white ULTRA MINI modules.
The whole idea is to be seen, right? Halo lit channel letters provide contrast and intrigue that creates excellent visibility for a business sign. With halo lighting techniques, your design options are only limited by the imagination.
