Signs & Graphics: Institute of Materials Minerals & Mining

OUR WORK

The Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining

When the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) moved into their new London HQ on Euston Road, they wanted to make the space their own. The building was modern and full of light, but it didn’t yet feel like them. The brief was simple enough — bring in the organisation’s long history, its links to science and engineering, and give the place an identity that visitors and members would immediately recognise.

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✉️ harlow@signs-express.co.uk

Project Overview

Working closely with the Institute’s in-house designer, Signs Express (Harlow) was asked to design and install a mix of internal and external signage that felt both traditional and contemporary. There was also a firm deadline in place, everything had to be ready for the official opening by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.

Our approach

Inside, the design took inspiration from IOM3’s heritage. We produced brushed stainless steel wall panels engraved with the chemical symbols and atomic numbers of key metals, each paired with a brass nameplate marking rooms and entrances. It gave the space a real sense of purpose and craft.

We also added some creativity to the more everyday areas. A plain stairwell was completely transformed with custom vinyl wall graphics, while the lift doors were wrapped to look like an old mine shaft elevator — a small detail, but one that visitors instantly notice.

On the exterior, we continued the theme with brushed steel plaques matching the internal finish, and double-sided projecting banners to make the building easy to spot from the busy Euston Road.

Outcome

Our Harlow team managed the project from start to finish, survey, manufacture, and installation. The timeline was tight, so planning was key. With the royal opening date fixed, we had to work quickly, coordinating design approvals, production, and fitting in a matter of weeks.

The transformation was immediate. What had been a blank, modern space became a building full of character, one that celebrated IOM3’s history while showing off its modern side. Seeing it all come together in time for the official opening made the effort worth it.

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