Brief Guide to Room Number Signs

By  //  August 14, 2024

Much of the hustle could be avoided if people simply knew where they should go. Understandable wayfinding could easily eliminate uncomfortable questions and unwilling or unexpected interactions.

If we have such a possibility, why not rely on room number signs and use this possibility?

Number plaques for rooms and houses have been around for quite a while. Yet, not everyone realises their full significance and potential in terms of casting a comfortable environment. When you buy on Bsign Store, you will realise that these are not just empty words. But let us discuss this from different perspectives.

Accessibility as the Ultimate Goal

Of course, the major objective of using room number signs is to make sure that visitors will be able to locate the necessary room and access it quickly. What else do they need? Ease of wayfinding is often underestimated in terms of comfort, and that is a big mistake because with room number signs people can find the area they need without additional assistance. This saves the time and effort of the workforce.

This system has been proving its efficiency for centuries. Just consider that number signs have been used since the 17th century, and they are believed to greatly boost the productivity of the post office. So why change what works well?

Where Room Number Signs Are Essential

  • Hotels: Hotels and other accommodation facilities have to put maximum effort into ensuring customer’s comfort because this is what accommodation is all about. Obviously, hotels might not always have enough workforce to escort new visitors to their rooms. Besides, some visitors might simply not want additional assistance. This is where room number signs come into play.
  • Public institutions: Government offices, universities, schools, hospitals, and other facilities with public access often accept hundreds of visitors every day. In order not to leave all of them just wandering around the place, it is necessary to mark all the rooms with corresponding numbers.
  • House exterior markers: House numbers appeared before interior door numbers for obvious reasons. House numbers greatly contribute to the organization of the neighborhood or other residential areas, which is why it is often required by the authorities.

Different Numbering Systems Explained

Numbering systems are applied for both exterior and interior numbering. They are pretty simple because the purpose is to make wayfinding simple for every new visitor. There are two most popular numbering systems:

  1. Sequential: Room number signs are placed along the corridor or road in a linear sequence.
  2. Zig-zag: Even numbers are placed on one side of the corridor or road and odd numbers are placed on the opposite side.

Going Beyond Functionality

Last but not least, room door numbers are just functional tools that help to locate different areas. We live in the 21st century, and the visual features and aesthetics of the overall representation play an important role. Well-chosen number signs can serve as great decor elements to enhance either the interior or exterior design of the building. In businesses, these markers can be also used to contribute to the unique brand identity, which is essential in terms of the first impression on new customers.