How Modern Cities Can Create Landmarks

Creating landmarks means leaving your statement for current and future generations. In urban spaces, this can be a powerful, shared, community experience. Some landmarks can become national treasures. Others, confusing errors. If you want to know how to get it right, read on!

Harness your local heritage

Firstly, start by looking at your local heritage. Ask what it is that makes your area so special. This approach is why installations such as the London Eye have become so beloved, and why counterparts such as the o2 Arena have been so confusing. Architecturally, both are magnificent. Culturally, one pays direct homage to heritage, the other does not.

The same rule applies to signage centrepieces. Ensure that yours resonates deeply with your community, your local identity, and your unique community.

Design like a master

Landmarks are not simply visual statements. For example, the Ribblehead Viaduct is one of the most striking pieces of design in the UK, but it has a very clear purpose. This idea of multi-functional urban design is the key to unlocking mastery in landmark statements.

When considering your modern urban landmark, ensure that you frame its purpose. Importantly, this purpose must reflect the character and needs of your local area. Whether the requirement is for fun, relaxation, engagement, or wayfinding information, begin with the purpose and the design will flow.

Embrace innovative materials and techniques

Everyone is wowed by a dash of innovation. This is a time-honoured practice, as can be seen in the responsive fountains of London’s Barbican, joyfully springing into life against the unexpected backdrop of Deco design. They juxtapose the old with the new, and serve as a reminder that all generations respond with equal pleasure to engaging landmarks.

Today’s selection of materials and techniques are almost endless. Importantly, their durability and longevity can also be guaranteed. However, always partner with an experienced installer who can ensure that your landmark won’t crumble into a pile of misspent funds.  

Collaboration, inclusivity, diversity

Communities often feel a little baffled if a new installation is erected without any prior consultation. Even if the piece is stunning, the lack of involvement is usually taken as a bit of a slight. This is no surprise. People feel deeply engaged with their local area, which is the centre of their home or their working life.

This desire for engagement can be used to your advantage. By adopting a collaborative design process, you can harness the power of creative problem solving while generating a statement that truly represents the meaning of your community.

Budget

As soon as the term ‘iconic centrepiece’ is uttered, budget panic tends to set in. On the one hand, this is something that should stand for time immemorial, so it deserves investment. On the other hand… can it be afforded?

This is where community engagement really matters. By adopting a collaborative approach, the project is much more likely to be supported. Equally, partnering with project management experts such as Image Technique who can guarantee the minimal risk of delays and inaccurate costings can help to create your meaningful landmark without the financial headaches.

Next steps

If you need to create an iconic landmark for your area, the best place to start is by talking with an expert. To start seeing your ideas transform into reality, please get in touch today.