Window graphics

Plan each pane from both sides.

A window graphic sits between a message and a view. A storefront promotion, door graphic, or interior glass display needs a brief that describes what people should read and what should remain visible. Start with the individual panes rather than treating the entire window frontage as one uninterrupted rectangle.

Give each pane a reference and record its dimensions with units. Mark frames, handles, door movement, existing graphics, and other interruptions. Keep estimated measurements distinct from confirmed ones, and identify who will verify the final dimensions.

Separate viewing direction from application side

• Who reads it? State whether the message should read correctly from the street, from inside, or from both directions. Describe different artwork on different faces instead of assuming a single layout answers every view.
• Where does it go? Inside or outside application is a separate decision from viewing direction. Note the glass condition, known coatings, existing graphics, and access to the proposed application side. Compatibility needs review.
• What stays visible? Identify areas that should remain clear and whether the aim is coverage, light, privacy, or a view through the glass. These are design objectives, not confirmed properties of an unspecified material.

For a graphic spanning several panes, show where the message crosses frames and where separate layouts are preferable. Identify any existing graphic that needs removal and the intended use period; removal method and the condition left behind require discussion.

Bring a pane-by-pane brief

• Pane references, dimensions, units, quantity, and measurement uncertainties.
• Viewing direction, application side, and areas to keep clear.
• Existing graphics, access restrictions, and removal questions.
• Artwork versions, intended use period, and requested date.

Connect the layout to the location

Use Artwork preparation to relate each file to its pane and reading direction. For several storefronts, For business helps separate shared messaging from location-specific measurements.