Painted Fanlight Numbers for a Grade II Listed House in Barnes
Traditional Signs Of London was commissioned by the owners of a Grade II listed Regency villa in Barnes to design and hand paint a bespoke fanlight number above the property’s main entrance.
Rather than replicating an existing design, the project began with a series of visual concepts, allowing the clients to compare different typefaces before selecting a classic Trajan-style serif that complemented the proportions and period character of their home.
Designing a Traditional Fanlight Number
The clients had originally considered commissioning matching hand-painted numbering for both the fanlight and a large gate pier at the front of the property. Visual layouts were produced for each option before they chose to proceed with the fanlight alone.
Although the number is naturally centred within the semi-circular fanlight, achieving the correct scale was an important part of the design process.
A fanlight number that is too large can dominate the entrance, while one that is too small can appear lost within the glazing.
Careful consideration of the proportions ensured the finished lettering enhanced the architecture rather than competing with it.
Reverse Painting the Glass
The number was reverse painted onto the inside face of the fanlight glass using traditional signwriting enamels.
An ivory fill was outlined with a fine black line to provide clear definition while maintaining an elegant appearance suited to the Regency façade.
A specialist spirit-based fast-drying black enamel was used for the outline to improve efficiency during production before a protective clear varnish was applied.
Painting on the inside of the glass protects the finished lettering from the weather, while the varnish provides additional resistance where regular window cleaning or cleaning products may come into contact with the painted surface.
Completed Painted Fanlight Number
The completed fanlight number provides a refined focal point above the entrance, complementing the proportions and architectural detailing of this handsome Grade II listed property.
By combining thoughtful design with traditional reverse-glass signwriting, the finished result offers a durable and elegant alternative to vinyl or applied house numbers.
Traditional Signs Of London designs and hand paints bespoke painted fanlight numbers, house names and entrance lettering for period and contemporary homes throughout London and the surrounding counties.
To find out more, visit our Residential Signwriting page or Contact us to discuss your project, or email info@traditionalsignsoflondon.uk.