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Multi-story lettering was added to an iconic building in Dundee by signage company, Technical Signs, which will open as Scotland’s third-largest entertainment venue later this year
Multi-story lettering has been added to the LiveHouse entertainment and conference venue in Dundee, ahead of its predicted opening later this year.
The name of the future 4,500-capacity arena was added to the former Mecca Bingo Hall tower by Technical Signs, a signage, metalworks, and bespoke lighting specialist based in Watford.
Speaking exclusively to SignLink, Ian Bigley, managing director of Technical Signs, explains: “They approached us with a vision – to create a music venue inspired by the glitz and glamour of 1950s Broadway venues, brought to life with vibrant ‘neon like’ lighting.”
After an initial call with the architects in charge of the building’s revamp, Nicoll Russell Studios, Technical Signs completed two to three months of sampling, development, experimenting with colour combinations, and surveying before installation.
The installation was reportedly completed in around 11 days, with lettering on the 85ft building completed by installers on a telescopic boom lift.
The signage consists of descaled stainless steel 3D built-up letters with recessed faces and bullnosed opal acrylic, illuminated to mimic a traditional neon sign.
The lighting is controlled by DMX controllers, which zone the letters to allow "LIVE" and "HOUSE" to be illuminated in separate, programmable colours.
“A project of this scale required careful planning to minimise disruption to the town", Bigley comments. "We worked with the client to implement a comprehensive traffic management and access plan, ensuring public disturbance was kept to a minimum while also managing costs effectively."
Speaking of the client's response, Bigley adds: “The client is delighted with the end result and sent us a lovely email saying our signage is the talk of the city. Always nice to hear.”
The LiveHouse venue will reportedly become Scotland’s third-largest entertainment venue upon opening.
The venue has long been a staple of Dundee’s skyline. Built in 1936 as a "super-cinema" with a seating capacity of 4,800, In 1995 a fire destroyed most of the historic structure with only the advertising tower remaining. Mecca Bingo took over the site the following year, opening a bingo hall which remained in operation until February 2024.
