Traditional Gilding for a Luxury Shopfront at R.M. Williams
Gold leaf gilding is one of the most refined and time-honoured forms of signwriting — a process defined by patience, precision and true craftsmanship. For our recent project with R.M. Williams on George Street, this traditional technique was the perfect way to create a shopfront that reflects the brand’s premium identity while sitting comfortably within one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious retail destinations.
Why Gold Leaf Gilding?
Unlike vinyl or printed graphics, hand-applied 23.5 carat gold leaf signage delivers a depth, warmth and brilliance that cannot be replicated. It interacts with natural light throughout the day and glows under evening illumination, giving the façade a constantly changing, high-end appearance.
For luxury retail environments, gilded signage offers:
A timeless and heritage-led aesthetic
Exceptional durability for exterior applications
A finish that immediately communicates quality and permanence
A completely bespoke, handcrafted result
This makes it an ideal choice for brands looking to elevate their presence and create a lasting first impression.
The Craft of Glass Gilding
For this project, our specialist signwriting team carried out reverse glass gilding to both sides of the entrance, alongside a large gilded fascia sign that was manufactured and prepared in our workshop before installation on site.
Each stage of the process requires absolute control and experience:
Meticulous surface preparation
Precise application of the gold size
Hand-laying the 23.5 carat gold leaf
Careful cleaning and backing-up to protect the finish
There are no shortcuts in gilding — only skill, steady hands and years of practice.
A High-End Finish That Elevates the Entire Location
The choice of traditional gold leaf signwriting was key to ensuring the signage aligned with the heritage, craftsmanship and premium materials associated with R.M. Williams.
The result is a shopfront that:
Enhances the architectural character of George Street
Creates a refined and confident brand presence
Complements the interior retail experience
Stands apart from standard signage solutions
This is signage not just as wayfinding or branding — but as a permanent, architectural feature.
Expertise from an Experienced Signwriting Team
Our in-house signwriters bring years of gilding and heritage signwriting experience, allowing us to deliver projects that require a higher level of production, knowledge and care than most modern signage companies offer.
From workshop fabrication through to on-site application, every stage is handled by our own team — ensuring consistency, quality and a truly bespoke finish.
Bespoke Gold Leaf Signage in Edinburgh and Beyond
Whether for luxury retail, hospitality or heritage buildings, gold leaf gilded signage remains one of the most effective ways to communicate quality and permanence.
If you’re looking to introduce a traditional craft technique into a contemporary branded environment, our design, build and installation service can guide the process from concept to completion.
Get in touch to discuss how hand-crafted gilded signage can elevate your space.
