Naked Castle: A Stunning Visual Signage System

Embracing Art Deco Style and Nature

The inspiration for the Naked Castle signage system comes from the rich history and architectural beauty of European castles. The designers at Zesion Design have carefully incorporated British style elements, such as the hoof, shield, and streamer, into the coat of arms. The signage also features icons of a king and queen wearing crowns, adding a touch of regality to the design. Each letter and number on the signage adopts double lines as part of the decoration, further enhancing its visual appeal.

What sets the Naked Castle signage system apart is its meticulous attention to detail. The designers have ensured that all the lines in the design are close to the golden ratio, resulting in a visually pleasing and balanced composition. This commitment to precision and proportion elevates the signage system to a work of art.

The Naked Castle signage system is not just about functionality; it is a reflection of the lifestyle and values embraced by the castle itself. The design seamlessly integrates the experience of the Naked Castle founder and the breathtaking scenery of Moganshan, creating a visual narrative that goes beyond mere signage. It embodies the essence of immersing oneself in nature and finding pure pleasure in life.

In terms of production, the Naked Castle signage system showcases a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. The coat of arms is meticulously crafted using a mold casting technique, with low melting point metal poured into a hand-carved wooden mold. The final product is then hand-polished and colored to match the color and history of the castle. The signage throughout the castle is made from forged iron and local wood, ensuring durability in outdoor environments.

The Naked Castle signage system encompasses various specifications, including the coat of arms, weathervane, wayfinding on street lamps, village room plaques, and restaurant doorplates. Each element is carefully designed and crafted to seamlessly blend with the castle's overall aesthetic.

Throughout the design process, the Zesion Design team faced several challenges. The on-site investigation and location of the signages proved to be demanding due to the castle's steep slope. However, their dedication and meticulous planning resulted in the perfect placement of each signage element. Additionally, sourcing and handling materials posed a challenge, but the team overcame this by utilizing local resources, such as Wukang stone, wood, and iron, adding a touch of local character to the castle.

The Naked Castle signage system is a testament to the power of design in creating a cohesive and immersive experience. It seamlessly blends different styles, cultures, and ages, reflecting the castle's raw and elegant architectural styles. As visitors explore the castle, the signage system guides them through the stories of its rich history and the changes that have occurred in Moganshan over the years. It is a visual representation of the castle's spirit and memories.

The Naked Castle signage system project began in April 2016 and was completed in June 2017, with a six-month on-site investigation that provided inspiration to the design team. The designers conducted extensive research on the castle's history and drew inspiration from the natural scenery of Moganshan, resulting in a design that truly captures the essence of the castle and its surroundings.

This exceptional design has been recognized with the prestigious A' Design Award in 2020. The Naked Castle signage system was awarded the Iron A' Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design Award, a testament to its well-designed, practical, and innovative nature. This award recognizes designs that meet professional and industrial requirements while also contributing to a better world through their fulfillment and positive impact.