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Pylons and Totems – How to Showcase Your Brand Right From the Entrance

In modern urban spaces, it’s increasingly common to see that company headquarters or industrial zones feature more than standard, ordinary signboards with a logo. Pylons and totems – the subject here – are becoming modern showcases that not only inform but also build a brand’s image from the very first moment someone enters a company’s premises.

So why is it worth investing in pylons and totems? And what makes these structures more than just “ordinary signs”? Let’s find out!

Unique Design and Materials – Stand Out From the Start


When you think of an “entrance sign,” you probably envision a classic board with a company name. But modern pylons and totems take it a step further. Designed with unconventional shapes and unique materials in mind, they stand out against template solutions.

Each project is tailored to reflect the character of your brand. Visual identity is more than just a logo – it’s about creating the first impression. Pylons act as “welcoming ambassadors,” immediately communicating the solidity, professionalism, and uniqueness of your business.


Solid Construction That Lasts for Years


A company’s showcase must not only look good but also be reliable. Our pylons and totems are supported by internal steel structures that can be firmly anchored in the ground, ensuring durability for years to come. By using weather-resistant materials and carefully chosen finishes, these structures are durable, sturdy, and... simply beautiful.

Regardless of the weather, a pylon remains an impeccable element of your brand’s image.

Illumination Effect – Your Brand Visible at Night


Illuminated pylons are a true hit. When the day ends and the surroundings sink into dusk, subtle lighting brings your pylon back to life. Lighting accentuates the structure's shapes and highlights key elements of your message while adding a modern touch.

Thanks to this, your company is visible at all times of the day and night, and your brand gains a professional and contemporary image in the eyes of customers.


Flexible Solutions – Because Every Company is Different


No two companies are identical, so the pylons we create are individually tailored to your needs. Whether you need a large, double-sided pylon by the main road or a smaller totem helping visitors find their way – we can deliver it for you.

With design flexibility and customization options, we are not limited to a single formula. Your brand is unique, and we help you emphasize that.

An Element of Space That Builds Brand Image


Pylons and totems are more than just informational tools – they are an integral part of the surroundings. When designing them, we ensure they harmonize with the space while attracting attention and building positive associations.

Imagine guests arriving to see a modern structure – solid, aesthetically pleasing, and well-thought-out. What will they think about you? Probably that you care about details and are a company worth trusting.


Your Pylon – Your Showcase


Pylons and totems are more than place markers. They are a way to showcase your brand and make it stand out from the competition. Solid structures, aesthetic execution, illuminated effects, and design flexibility – all of this makes a pylon a true showcase for your business.

If you want your company to impress from the entrance, choose modern pylons and totems. It’s an investment in how your brand is perceived – today and for many years to come.

Get Inspired and Create a First Impression That Truly Works!

2024.12.19

Pretende

Neon Semaphore Lidl - Pretende Warsaw

Design and construction of a traditional neon sign for the LIDL retail chain

We recently had the opportunity to participate in a fascinating project, which will certainly remain in our memories for a long time. It concerns the design and execution of a double-sided neon sign in the shape of the 'Lidl' logo and the word 'Welcome' on the façade of a shop for a well-known German shop chain, which opened its next branch in Warsaw on Tamki Street. Why was this project special for us? Well, designing and creating neon signs is not only our job, but also our passion. We have been doing this for years, and it started with learning about the history of creating traditional glass neon signs and falling in love with this unusual craft. This time we were able to design and make a traditional neon, double-sided perpendicular semaphore one of a kind!


1960s-style neon sign for Lidl

Working on this project brought us great satisfaction, especially as the result is truly unique. Our neon sign not only reflects the Lidl logo, but also alludes to the aesthetics of the communist era. You will not find another one like it in Poland, or even in the whole world! This one is one of a kind, as it is made of original hand-moulded glass neon. The colour scheme of the sign has been carefully thought out and harmonises perfectly with Lidl's visual identity. The neon double-sided semaphore mounted perpendicular to the façade has impressive dimensions — 1.5 m × 1.5 m — making it highly visible and eye-catching. The design and personalisation of this neon sign was cautious, capturing the spirit of the 1960s with a modern twist. We went to a lot of trouble to ensure that the double-sided perpendicular neon semaphore blends harmoniously with the architecture of the building, creating a coherent entire. In addition to the neon Lidl logo, we also made the spatial neon sign 'Welcome'. It was a big challenge, but the effort paid off, and the result meets the highest quality standards.


We made no secret of the fact that we were working under a lot of time pressure. The shop had a strict opening date, which introduced a certain amount of nervousness.

Nevertheless, we managed and can now rejoice in our joint success. We are proud that such a reputable company as Lidl trusted the Pretende brand. For years, we have been recognised on the market all over Poland and have successfully carried out various sign commissions.

The greatest reward after a completed project is always positive feedback from the client. In this case, there was no shortage of praise and words of appreciation. Such feedback gives a great sense of satisfaction and fulfilment, which drives me to take on more challenges. We look to the future with this attitude. We are ready for new projects for the 21st century.


The remarkable story of traditional neon signs

Creating traditional neon signs is a true art that requires precision, skill, and patience. The process began with design, where the creator would prepare an accurate drawing of the lettering or graphics in actual size. This was followed by the bending of glass tubes, made from sodium or borosilicate glass. The tubes were heated over a gas burner until they became flexible, and the craftsman manually formed them into the correct shapes according to the design. Once formed, the tubes were thoroughly cleaned inside to remove any impurities. The next stage was to fit electrodes to the ends of the tubes, which were then connected to a vacuum pump. This removed the air from inside the tube, creating a vacuum, after which the tubes were filled with a suitable gas, usually neon (which gives a red light) or argon (which gives a blue light). Once filled, the tubes were sealed and tested for leakage and proper illumination. The finished neon tubes were mounted on special frames or panels using acrylic brackets and insulators, then installed at the target site and connected to a transformer that provided the correct voltage to power the neon lights.

Thanks to the precision and dedication of craftsmen at every stage, traditional neon signs became a popular advertising element and aesthetic symbol of the 20th century, and now, thanks to new design possibilities, neon signs are thriving into the futurism of the 21st century. And this is our goal — Pretende is growing and taking on more and more new challenges, and the greatest reward for us are orders from well-known and reputable companies because they testify to the trust we have earned with our presence on the market for many years. Thank you!

2024.06.29

Pretende

W jaki sposób reklama świetlna wspiera Twoją firmę?

How does light advertising support your business?

Illuminated advertising is a proven way to distinguish a brand from the crowd. Thanks to it, the company can really influence its visibility in the industry, leading to an increase in the sale of products or services. Therefore, if you are looking for a creative and effective way to support your business activities — be sure to read the article below.


Under the slogan of light advertising, there are several products, and each of them differs both in appearance and technology. However, the choice is not hard when an advisor comes to your aid. A good one knows how their products can help your business.



Why is light advertising a good choice?

It’s an advertisement that actually works. Sometimes even independently of our awareness. Why? Mainly because we are good observers. Our attention is drawn to the elements that stand out from the surroundings. And there is no denying — light advertising — is exactly such “attractor.” It is visible during the day, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions (rain, fog, cloudy sky), and at night, when the surroundings are plunged into darkness. It also stands out inside with its lighting. Brightened logos, slogans, or characteristic elements of the respective brand, which are produced in accordance with the company's visual identity, remain etched in the recipients' memory and unintentionally activate in the future through simple associations.


Where and what light advertising to use?

The answer is simple: it depends! Deciding which type and location of light advertising works best for your brand involves several elements and is dependent on:

  • the business you create,
  • the industry in which you run your company,
  • the goal you want to achieve,
  • needs,
  • and a few other factors.

It is important to select the product in the best way and manufacture it in accordance with your brand. It must be consistent with the colors, font, idea, and vision, because only then will it create a coherent image of your brand in the recipient’s mind, and only in this way will it become a true element of your company’s visual identity.



Here I am — illuminated advertisement as a signpost.

One way to utilize illuminated advertising is to create a kind of signpost. A neon sign hanging over the entrance to a pub or restaurant will indicate direction even on the darkest night. A highlighted company name suspended on the building will be visible from the perspective of a passing car. Such an illuminated advertisement can be integrated into the reception area by placing it just behind the service desk. This way, we facilitate guests' arrival at the information point while influencing the perception of the company as professional and caring for the customer. And as we know, first impressions are the foundation of good relationships. It is also important to indicate the building number or street name itself, as well as for the hotel industry — the rooms, names of conference rooms, or signs leading to specific locations within the facility.


Information or decoration?

Illuminated advertising serves an informative function, but an undeniable complement (which often carries even greater significance) is its decorative quality. The technologies at our disposal allow us to create visually appealing inscriptions referencing a variety of styles, such as retro, American Dream, or glamour. Large-format signs have also gained significant popularity. They found their place in the tourism industry by promoting cities and encouraging visitors to take photographs in front of them. They also work well in the wedding industry, becoming decorations for outdoor locations or wedding halls.



Advertising limited only by your imagination.

Illuminated advertising can be used in many ways: from basic signage to the most creative projects. It all depends on the goals and needs. The technology at our disposal allows us to create unique and individual solutions made from various materials: wood, metal, or glass. Utilizing these opportunities will make your brand visible and recognizable, which will automatically affect the relationship with customers. And that’s a straightforward path to increasing sales and achieving success for your company.
 

2023.02.24

Pretende

Amerykański styl w reklamie - czym się wyróżnia i jak go wykorzystać w promocji firmy?

American style in advertising - what makes it stand out and how to use it to promote the company?

Flashy, colourful neon lights, symbols, and eye-catching bright graphic elements - these are the distinguishing features of the American style, which reigned in the United States in the 1950s. It was an expression of fascination with the future and the cosmos, as well as a reflection of the positive mood prevailing at the time. And although this enthusiastic era has long passed, the American style still fascinates and finds itself well in the advertising market.

Undoubtedly, if we want to stand out from the competition, it is a style that is worth being inspired by and used to promote the brand. Especially if you belong to people who focus on individualism, and courage and creativity are their middle names.


American-style light advertising - where does the idea come from?


The style in question is a combination of flashiness, colours and shapes that attract attention from a distance. That was the purpose of mid-twentieth-century American signs. They invited people to roadside bars, restaurants, and motels. They indicated specific points with large arrows, symbols, and lights. They surprised with their futuristic appearance, but on the other hand, they blended in perfectly with the so-called Googie architecture. If you are looking for references in culture, the second part of the movie "Back to the Future" can be mentioned, in which the main character goes back in time to a town full of neon lights and enjoys a classic "milkshake" in a pastel bar. From fairy-tale references, "The Jetsons" fit perfectly into this style, delighting with a futuristic vision of a city in the clouds. It is a style that was ahead of its time, attracted attention and allowed breaking the standards prevailing at that time. Today, it is being rediscovered in various industries, partly due to its uniqueness, but also due to fascination with the vintage trend.


American style in a modern edition


Although it seems that the American style is glamorous and exaggerated, it undoubtedly attracts attention. In our projects, we get the best out of it, we inspire ourselves and adapt it to the client's visual identification. This style is characterized by its individuality, influenced by the fact that our first designs are always made by hand, and we have launched a new, special production line to create these non-standard signs. Thanks to this, we are the only company in Europe that specializes in creating creative advertising in the American style.


What distinguishes the American style in light advertising?


In this light advertisement, there is no talk of minimalism and simplicity. Here, a multitude of well-matched elements stands out, distinguishing and complementing each other. Therefore, we can find:

  • colour - bright colors, clear, but often combined with pastels,
  • graphic symbols - arrows, geometric shapes, stars, hands pointing in the direction,
  • light bulbs - like in wardrobes from old movies,
  • neons - created from glass curls shaping into names, phrases, or slogans,
  • forms and shapes - flat surfaces, wavy, transparency, or colored metal bases of letters and symbols.

Without a doubt, a lot happens on these signs, just like in the brands they represent.


Down with minimalism - we will find a golden mean


The secret of a good American-style light advertisement is matching it perfectly to the surrounding space and finding the golden mean in its design. Therefore, as with every project, talking to our advisor is essential. Any abstraction and excess can be framed, and our technology allows us to create various ideas of our clients and create their own American Dream.

2022.12.16

Pretende

Kaseton Reklamowy

Coffer advertising

This time, a restaurant from Sopot ordered external signage in the form of a light box from our company. I recommend this cuisine to everyone :)
Our project - Light cassette, silver dibond with spatial letters encourages you to enter the restaurant :)

2019.05.24

Pretende

Neony

Neon signs

We produced two external neon signs, which were installed in Warsaw at Krucza Street. One of them is a two-sided circular semaphore, tinted glass. The neon lights effectively illuminate the entrance to the premises, the more so as it is another neon sign on Krucza Street.

2019.05.24

Pretende

The Latest Trends in Advertising Signs for 2025 – What Will Be on Top?

Advertising signs are more than just writing above the door – they are the business card of every company. In 2025, we can expect many innovations that will catch the eye and make an impression. Companies are increasingly investing in modern technologies and designs to stand out in the crowd. What solutions will dominate this year? Here are our predictions!

Thin Backlit Letters – Minimalism That Shines

1. Thin Backlit Letters – Minimalism That Shines


Imagine delicate, elegant letters that subtly glow at night. Everything suggests that thin backlit letters will be one of the hottest trends. Their lightweight construction and modern appearance suit cafes, boutiques, or offices – places where aesthetics matter. As for light colours? There are plenty of options – from subtle halos to intense yet still elegant lighting. This solution will make any brand stand out.

Lightboxes – Classic in a Modern Form

2. Lightboxes – Classic in a Modern Form


Advertising lightboxes are a sure bet that remains at the peak of popularity but with a fresh twist. In 2025, we predict that models with a simple, neat design and expressive lighting will dominate. Lightboxes with a frosted front that provides soft light and lightweight aluminium constructions will become increasingly common. Their popularity stems from durability and versatility – they work well for small shops and larger shopping malls alike.

Prismatic Letters – Like Diamonds on a Sign

3. Prismatic Letters – Like Diamonds on a Sign


Prismatic letters are another trend that will be riding the wave in 2025. Thanks to their faceted surface, they reflect light in a way that catches the eye and adds dynamism to signs. We predict they’ll find their place in shopping centres, luxury boutiques, and anywhere a brand wants to stand out creatively. Their three-dimensional look gives signs a modern and unique character.

Screen-Shaped Letters – The Future at Your Fingertips

4. Screen-Shaped Letters – The Future at Your Fingertips


Letters with built-in screens are something that’s just starting to gain popularity but holds massive potential for 2025. This technology allows signs to display animations, logos, or dynamic messages. It’s an ideal solution for the gastronomy industry, clubs, or stores wanting to impress customers. Imagine a restaurant’s logo letter displaying an animation of a steaming dish – the wow effect is guaranteed!

Infinity Mirror Letters – Depth That Hypnotises

5. Infinity Mirror Letters – Depth That Hypnotises


Letters with an "infinity mirror" effect will certainly draw attention this year. Combining mirrored surfaces and LED lighting creates the illusion of endless depth. In 2025, this effect may become popular in clubs, modern office buildings, or places where first impressions matter. Infinity letters are more than just advertising – they’re decoration and a show in one.

Summary – What Awaits Signs in 2025?

Summary – What Awaits Signs in 2025?


In 2025, advertising signs will combine functionality with aesthetics on a whole new level. From minimalist thin letters to modern lightboxes and futuristic screen-letters – there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning to create a sign for your business, choose a solution that highlights your brand’s character and catches the eye stylishly and innovatively.

2025.01.28

Pretende