Sage Journal   •   April 16, 2019

Mercy Corps has been a regular client that we have worked with for almost 2 years. Originally it was projects like street pole banners and some parade orientated interactive photo backdrops with the ability to easily change messaging.

For this particular project we were asked to help change over and update the Action Center with a new more vivid and interactive exhibit, meant to live for a few years. It was a large undertaking, thus the reason we’re taking two journal entries to cover it all!

First, the client was interested in transforming the center of the room with a large display of Dye Sublimated Fabric banners. We prototyped one set of hardware and banners that, per the client’s request, was relatively easy to adjust utilizing velcro and angling attachments. This prototype helped Mercy Corps to realize they wanted a slightly shorter banner and that they wanted the banners flush with the structural columns of the building instead.

The end result, after adding vinyl to the sides of the columns themselves to supplement the content on the banners, is stunning. The visual impact is impressive and the decision to utilize the columns was definitely a solid choice.

What we accomplished in this step:

• Met repeatedly with client showing samples, going over production methods, colors, installation methodology to ensure client was fully informed every step of the way.
• Custom design and fabrication of powder coated metal adjustable banner hanging brackets
• Prototyped hardware, fabric banners & installed to see how they hung/looked/performed
• Adjusted sizing and produced final hardware, Dye Sublimated Fabric Banners and installed

Another area that Mercy Corps wanted to incorporate in the updated Action Center was an interactive and informative table top. This display included a variety of elements such as:

• Plotter cut vinyl lettering with information to share about Mercy Corps and it’s mission
• Custom produced flip plastic pieces, involving digitally printed expanded pvc, router cut to fit on
• Custom wood platforms providing background information and flippable graphics, that the client opted to install themselves with custom hardware.  
• Specialty printed designs, only seeable with a red filter, for special effects.
• Rubber material, for the interactive block puzzle area on the table, requiring that we research and source proper adhesive to cut and apply to the table top

Stay tuned for Part 2, coming soon!