McGill University - Quebec
Project Value: $155,000
Founded in 1821, McGill University is one of Canada's oldest and most prestigious academic institutions, recognized internationally. It operates on three iconic sites: the main campus in the heart of downtown Montreal, the Macdonald Campus in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, and the Gault Campus, nestled at the foot of Mont Saint-Hilaire.
In 2016, the University embarked on a major project: to review, modernize, and standardize all its exterior signage. The objective? To create a strong, consistent, and distinct image for all campuses and buildings, while improving visitor orientation and experience. A true Signature project, custom-designed.
McGill wanted to maintain full control of its visual identity: graphic design, typography, and textual content were provided by its internal team. Signalisation Kalitec therefore worked in close collaboration with the client, taking charge of the entire mechanical design and manufacturing.
Our design director developed an ingenious post system, allowing signs to be integrated by sliding, without any visible hardware. This solution is both elegant and functional, applied to smaller wall signs as well as large-scale signage structures. Attention to detail and aesthetics was at the heart of the process.
Another major challenge: McGill's emblematic color. Since no standard shade exactly matched its distinctive red, Signalisation Kalitec developed a custom electrostatic paint color, perfectly faithful to the University's visual identity. Durable and perfectly suited for aluminum, this powder finish ensures excellent long-term resistance, even in demanding outdoor conditions.
At the end of the project, there were:
- 200 wall identifications
- About sixty post-mounted signs
- Two main signs, including an impressive 12’ x 12’8 structure, installed on a concrete foundation
Signalisation Kalitec delivered a large-scale project where uniformity, precision, and aesthetics meet, while rigorously respecting the client's requirements, budget, and timelines. A complex mandate, carried out with finesse, which perfectly reflects the prestigious image of McGill University.
