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Architectural Exit Signs

Architectural exit signs (also called decorative exit signs) mark egress paths with a refined, low-profile appearance. Edge-lit acrylic panels and slim metal housings keep sightlines clean while providing clear legends, directional chevrons, and 90-minute emergency visibility. Browse the full exit signs collection; for all-in-one fixtures see architectural exit lights (combos), or match with architectural emergency lights for balanced coverage.

Edge-Lit / Metal Housings LED Legend 90-Min Backup Directional Chevrons Single / Double Face NYC / Chicago Options
Buyers Guide Tips

What to Look for in Architectural Exit Signs

  • Legend visibility & viewing distance: Specify red or green letters with the required character height (6" typical; 8" red for NYC) and confirm 100-ft readability with chevrons where direction changes.
  • Form factor & mounting: Choose edge-lit acrylic or slim aluminum/steel housings; set single vs double face and back/top/end mounting to match approach angles and open areas.
  • Power & compliance: Universal 120/277 VAC, battery-backup with documented recharge, and UL 924 listing; consider self-testing, dual-circuit (2C-120/277) or SPV options, plus damp/wet variants where needed.

Architectural exit signs pair designer trims and edge-lit clarity with code-required performance. Use double-face signs at intersections, apply chevrons where the route bends, and verify legend readability at the 90-minute mark—not just at initial output. Match finishes to adjacent metalwork so signs recede into design-led interiors.

For projects with jurisdictional specifics, select NYC (8" red letters, metal housings) or Chicago-approved constructions as required. Prefer front-service layouts so battery and boards can be accessed without disturbing alignment, and keep status indicators visible from typical viewing height.

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Architectural Exit Signs - Features & Specs

  • Legend & photometrics: Specify 100-ft viewing distance with 6" characters (8" red for NYC); include directional chevrons and confirm legibility throughout the 90-minute discharge.
  • Construction & form: Edge-lit acrylic panels for a floating look, or slim aluminum/steel housings; field-selectable single/double face; back/top/end mounting with universal canopy where applicable.
  • Power & diagnostics: Universal 120/277 VAC; AC-only or EM models with documented recharge; options for self-testing, dual-circuit (2C-120/2C-277), and SPV 208/220/240 VAC inputs.
  • Listings & environments: UL 924 listed; select damp/wet-location variants as needed; NYC/Chicago approved models available to satisfy local requirements.

FAQs About Architectural Exit Signs

NYC projects — what’s required for compliance?

Use 8" red letters in a metal housing, internally illuminated, UL 924 listed. Green legends are not accepted for required signs. Select models specifically labeled as NYC compliant.

Chicago projects — what does “Chicago approved” actually mean?

Red letters with city-approved construction (metal housings; common spec is a white background with red legend). Use units labeled Chicago approved and plan for metal-conduit wiring methods per local practice.

100-ft vs 75-ft viewing distance — when do I pick each?

Use 100-ft in long corridors/open areas and at decision nodes where the sign must be read from distance; 75-ft suits typical office corridors. Always verify readability at the 90-minute mark, not just initial output.

Single vs double-face — what’s the rule of thumb?

Single-face for one-direction approaches; double-face at intersections, lobbies, or open spaces with multi-direction traffic. If you can see the sign from both sides in normal travel, use double-face.

Edge-lit panels: clear, mirror, or white — which panel when?

Clear for the most “floating” look, mirror to pop under downlights or reflective ceilings, white for maximum daytime contrast on pale walls. Keep panel choice consistent along a path for uniform appearance.

Do the signs need internal battery backup?

EM versions provide a 90-minute battery in the sign. AC-only signs are acceptable where separate emergency lighting delivers required egress illumination — ensure your lighting layout still passes at end-of-discharge.

Chevrons — order fixed arrows or apply in the field?

Most architectural models ship with field-applied left/right/double chevrons and a template. Apply arrows after final aiming so the direction matches the plan and sightlines.

Top/end/back mounting — how do I choose?

Top (ceiling) for long approaches and double-face visibility; end (flag) at corridor turns so the legend faces traffic; back (wall) where approach is head-on and ceiling clutter is a concern. Keep status indicators visible from typical viewing height.

Dual-circuit (2C-120/2C-277) and SPV — when are they used?

Dual-circuit is for AC-only signs tied to separate normal/emergency feeds. SPV (208/220/240 VAC) is specified when site power isn’t 120/277. Confirm recharge time and functional tests are documented for EM models.