At The Sussex Sign Company, we take pride in delivering signage that not only looks fantastic but also performs flawlessly in real-world environments. Our recent project for the University of Brighton’s Falmer Student Centre is a perfect example, a combination of eye-catching design, high-quality materials, and expert installation, a great case study to the question: what is the best signage for large glass frontages?
The University wanted to revitalise the Student Centre’s exterior, making it more visible, welcoming, and on-brand for students, staff, and visitors. The goal was to create a bold visual identity that clearly communicates the building’s purpose while providing privacy inside without compromising outward visibility.
Given the building’s large glass frontage, one-way vision window film (also known as Perforated Film) was the perfect choice. This allows full-colour printed graphics to be displayed externally while enabling people inside to see out clearly.
The Material: Metamark MD-CV2 Clear Vision
For this project, we specified Metamark MD-CV2 Clear Vision Premium Grade Perforated One-Way Window Film. It’s an industry-leading solution for applications on both vehicles and buildings, offering:
- 40% open area with 1.6mm perforations – ensuring excellent visibility from inside while displaying vibrant graphics on the outside.
- Black/white laminate construction – the black reverse provides the “see-through” effect from indoors, while the white face ensures bright, impactful print colours.
- Clear adhesive – for a flawless look and easy removal (up to six months without residue).
- Versatile printing compatibility – performs beautifully on Solvent, Eco Solvent, Latex, and UV printers, meaning we could deliver perfect colour reproduction.
Its premium quality makes it ideal for advertising and branding in high-traffic environments like the Student Centre.
What is the best signage for large glass frontages? The Project Specification:
This project involved 19 separate window panels of various sizes, including:
- 1450mm x 1320mm – 8 panels
- 1450mm x 545mm – 8 panels
- 435mm x 1320mm – 2 panels
- 435mm x 545mm – 2 panels
- 1450mm x 1090mm – 1 panel
- 1450mm x 545mm – 1 panel
- 425mm x 1320mm – 1 panel
- 425mm x 545mm – 1 panel
Every window was precisely measured to ensure the signage fitted perfectly within the frame, avoiding overlaps and ensuring the design flowed seamlessly across the façade showcasing the student centre branding.
What is the best signage for large glass frontages? The Project Design:
The university supplied a vibrant, geometric design incorporating its signature pink and blue branding colours alongside white text for maximum contrast. The artwork featured key messages, including “Student Centre” and lists of available services such as:
- Student Support Desk
- Student Wellbeing Services
- Disability and Learning Support
- Student Money Advice
- Careers and Employability
- Admissions
- Unicards
These elements were strategically placed to ensure they were readable from a distance, attracting attention and guiding visitors & students to the building – delivering on both branding but also the functional in terms of instructional, informative signage.
The Installation:
Installation took place on-site at the Falmer campus. Working around the Student Centre’s daily operations, our installation team applied the Metamark MD-CV2 perforated film directly to the glass panels, carefully aligning the design so that patterns and text flowed perfectly from one panel to the next.
The perforated vinyl was applied using specialist tools to ensure a bubble-free finish, with edges trimmed neatly to the frames for a long-lasting and professional result.
Because MD-CV2 has a dual core release liner, the print quality was outstanding, and the application process was smooth and efficient. This reduced installation time and ensured minimal disruption to staff and students.
The Results:
The transformation is immediately striking. The Student Centre now stands out as a modern, vibrant, and welcoming space – a clear visual focal point on campus. From the outside, the graphics deliver the university’s branding and information in a bold, professional manner. From the inside, natural light still floods in, and occupants enjoy clear views out, thanks to the 40% perforation.
The use of Metamark MD-CV2 Perforated Film means the graphics will retain their colour vibrancy and adhesion for the duration of their intended display period, with the added benefit of clean removal when it’s time for an update.
Why This Matters:
For spaces like student centres, branding is more than just decoration it’s a communication tool. These graphics help:
- Promote services by clearly listing what’s available inside.
- Create a welcoming environment for both new and returning students.
- Reinforce the university’s visual identity across its campus.
- Enhance privacy for those inside while still allowing light and views out.
This project demonstrates how the right choice of material, combined with expert printing and installation, can deliver results that are both functional and visually stunning.
Could One-Way Vision Film Graphics Work for You?
Whether you run a university, retail store, office, or leisure venue, perforated one-way window film can be a powerful branding and privacy solution. It’s perfect for:
- Large glass frontages that need branding without blocking visibility.
- Seasonal promotions or temporary campaigns (thanks to clean removability).
- Applications where interior light is important but you still want to display exterior graphics.
If you’re considering a similar transformation, The Sussex Sign Company has the experience, equipment, and skilled installers to deliver your project to the highest standard – from concept to completion.
The Sussex Sign Company is proud to have partnered with the University of Brighton on this high-impact project, helping them communicate their message, enhance their environment, and welcome students in style.
Contact Us: by email or telephone 01273 424900
