Gilded House Numbers for a Victorian Home in Balham
Traditional Signs Of London was commissioned to design and produce bespoke gilded house numbers for a Victorian property in Balham, South London.
Positioned within the glazed transom set beneath an original carved masonry entrance porch, the finished design was carefully proportioned to complement the architecture while providing an elegant and highly visible entrance feature.
Project Brief
The homeowner requested a design that matched the bespoke typeface used on a previous project, ensuring consistency while being tailored to the proportions of the existing transom window.
Every element of the composition was considered, including the overall size, spacing, black outline and cast shadow, allowing the genuine 23ct gold leaf to stand out clearly against the glass without appearing oversized or overpowering.
Producing Gilded House Numbers
Although gilded house numbers often appear deceptively simple, they are among the most time-consuming forms of traditional signwriting.
Every stage depends on the previous one being completed correctly, with drying periods between coats that cannot be hurried without compromising the finished result.
As this project was produced on the reverse of the glass, the entire design had to be painted in mirror image. The black outline and cast shadow were completed first before being allowed to dry thoroughly.
The gilding size was then carefully applied within each numeral and left until it reached the precise tack required to receive the genuine 23ct gold leaf.
Once gilded, the excess leaf was burnished away, the edges refined, any black detailing carefully touched in where required, before a final protective clear varnish was applied after further drying time.
The use of genuine gold leaf is only one part of the process. The design, preparation, precise timing and multiple stages of production are what create the crisp, durable finish associated with traditional gilded signwriting.
Completed Gilded House Numbers
The completed house numbers provide a refined entrance feature that enhances the Victorian property while respecting its original architectural character.
The combination of bespoke design, traditional craftsmanship and genuine 23ct gold leaf produces a finish with depth, clarity and longevity that cannot be achieved using imitation materials or quicker modern alternatives.
Traditional Signs Of London specialises in bespoke gilded house numbers, house names and residential signwriting throughout London and the surrounding counties. If you are considering a similar project, please visit our Residential Signwriting page or Contact us to discuss your requirements, or email info@traditionalsignsoflondon.uk