Neon signs and lights have been lighting up our cities since the early 19th century; and whilst there has previously been much dispute over whether these bright lights look tacky, or are a staple of some city’s historic landscape (you can guess what our viewpoint is on this). It cannot be argued that neon signs are coming back into fashion with full force; however, this time as an art form, and for decorative purposes, rather than advertising being their main focus. Neon restoration is becoming a regular occurrence for historic advertisement signs.
Lucozade Iconic Neon Sign Restoration
There was an uproar in Brentford, London recently; when an iconic Lucozade neon sign advertisement was replaced with a giant digital screen by advertiser JCDecaux. You can read more about the nostalgic significance to local residents here, but the reaction of these people shows how neon is emerging once again.
The iconic neon sign was located in full view on an elevated section of the M4; the petition to restore the sign to the original neon reached 1,700 signatures. Lucozade have said that the decision was out of their hands and they are currently trying to decide where to place the neon sign next, and in the meantime it is being preserved.
Walthamstow Stadium
Following a £100,000 neon restoration, Walthamstow Stadium’s iconic neon sign has been brought back to life and switched on again for the first time in eight years. The greyhound race track closed in 2008; after a long history and being nicknamed ‘Las Vegas At The End of the Victoria Line’, the sign was installed in 1951 to mark the Queen’s coronation.
Las Vegas
I think we must have lost count of the amount of times we’ve discussed The Neon Boneyard in Las Vegas, and how it is just as important as the strip for housing iconic and recognisable neon signs.
Tucson Hacienda Motel
Two years ago $125,000 was allocated to restore iconic neon signs; with the city’s Historic Preservation Office identifying historic neon signs and sending notices to the owners; two signs including the Hacienda Motel are undergoing restoration at the moment.
At Neon Creations, we are passionate about neon signs; as a family run company with over twenty years experience we understand the dedication it takes to be committed to creating neon. It is undeniably one of the last remaining hand crafted skills that remain, with the process changing very little over the past 100 years. We are very excited about the future of neon, as neon restoration continues to give historical and recognisable neon signs an opportunity to be appreciated once more. Contact us for all of your neon lighting needs.