Design-Build Signage: Residences of Acoma | Goodbye "Boilerplate" Specs. Hello Faux Corten Steel + Baltic Birch!

The Challenge: Moving Beyond the "Boilerplate" Sign Spec

In the architectural world, a "boilerplate spec" is often a safe starting point, but it rarely captures a building's soul. For the Residences of Acoma, the initial Planning + Design proposal served as a baseline. As the building’s identity emerged, the project team realized that the standard package didn't align with the vision of the Second Chance Center or the architectural intent.

The project shifted from a standard “spec” sign family to a customized architectural signage package designed to complement the building’s unique interior. This required managing an updated scope while keeping project timelines strictly on track. Latitude acted as a steward of this transition, ensuring the increased complexity didn't increase project risk.

The Solution: Material Harmony + Expert Execution

To align with the building's interior finishes, we integrated Baltic Birch wood as the primary substrate. Our goal was to prove competence through execution, ensuring every floor felt distinct yet part of a cohesive wayfinding system.

Key Signage Specifications

• Custom Unit IDs: These featured a multi-layered approach using Baltic Birch, precision-fabricated by Terry Maxfield, Latitude’s Director of Production. We paired the wood substrate with contrasting vinyl unit numbers for high legibility and a modern, residential aesthetic.

• Integrated Functional Elements: Latitude custom-manufactured and installed small architectural shelves beside the unit doors, providing a functional design element for residents.

• Floor-Specific Wayfinding: Each floor utilized a unique color scheme. Our Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) team of Design-Build Specialists includes Kristin Adkins and Anna Panada, who led the planning and design process and meticulously organized the signage variations to ensure 100% accuracy throughout manufacturing and installation.

A Bold Entrance: Faux Corten Steel Canopy

The focal point of the exterior is the canopy above the main entrance, which features a faux-corten steel finish. Suspended by threaded rods, the panel features lettering mounted directly to the face. This provides a rugged, industrial-meets-refined look that signals the building's character to visitors and residents alike.

Built on Trust + Collaboration

Success on a project this complex is only possible through peer-level trust and collaboration between the GC, the owner, and the sign partner. "The color schemes and sign types were so well organized, which helped keep this project accurate and on track despite the significant shift in scope." — Justin Halverson, Business Development Manager at Latitude

The Expert Team:

• Project Management: Gage, Colin, and Michael provided the structural support needed to manage the scope change without losing momentum.

• Installation: Ken, our lead Colorado installer, ensured the final execution was seamless by managing the specialized mounting of the entrance canopy and unit shelving.

The Result: A Smooth Installation With Design-Build Process

By engaging early, Latitude helped the Second Chance Center and Calcon Construction deliver a high-quality, long-lasting environment for residents. Even though the project direction evolved significantly, early collaboration, clear communication regarding design constraints, and material expertise created a smooth transition through the Design-Build process: Planning, Design, Manufacturing, and Installation.

Stop settling for boilerplate specs. Let’s align your design and budget early to eliminate finish-line risks. Connect Today!