Project Background
In early summer 2023, Flexlume was introduced to the vision behind Electric City when SaveLive project leader David Rees laid out their plans to turn The Tralf Music Hall into a vibrant new entertainment venue. The team at SaveLive was looking to pay homage to not only this historic venue, but it would also honor Buffalo’s legacy as one of America’s first electrified cities.
Buffalo played a pivotal role in the early adoption of electric power, fueled by energy from Niagara Falls. That legacy lives on not only in the city’s history, but also in its signage. The Electric City sign had to project the new venue's logo, designed by creative director Edoardo Chavarin, and honor that heritage.
Challenges
Designing signage for Buffalo’s Theater District presents unique challenges. It is always a balancing act between being bold and original enough to stand out from an outstanding crowd to honoring the style and history of the neighborhood, all while appealing to the audience that you hope to attract.
For the Electric City sign specifically, we had a few more challenges to overcome:
- Project the logo cleanly between tightly spaced buildings
- Create visual depth for a minimalist black-and-white logo
- Balance classic aesthetics with modern lighting technology
- Maximize square footage without overwhelming the space
Our Solution
Flexlume chose to combine traditional and modern approaches to this sign. The sign starts with a custom 3D backer to support the various elements of the Electric City sign. From there, Flexlume partnered with Kalisign to develop the custom letters and other logo elements of varying depths with their simulated neon LED illumination technology.
Outcome
All of the components came together quickly and elegantly, and the Electric City sign was installed in time for their opening. Today, the Electric City sign acts as a beacon to visitors in Buffalo’s entertainment district, honoring the region's proud history.
Have a signage project with a story to tell? Connect with Flexlume to explore custom solutions that combine craftsmanship, visibility, and lasting impact.
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Nestled in Buffalo’s bustling Theater District, “Electric City” emerges as a tribute to the city’s luminous history. At 433 Pearl St, it celebrates Buffalo’s legacy as America’s first electrified city, thanks to Nikola Tesla’s brilliance in 1896. The venue is strategically located among top-tier hotels and exquisite dining establishments. Electric City aims to be more than just a venue; it’s a beacon where Buffalo’s rich culture and dynamic arts shine bright.
