Kiltrane

A Fusion of Luxury Retail and Modern Craftsmanship | St. Giles Street, Edinburgh

Located on the corner of St Giles’ Street in the heart of Edinburgh, Kiltrane is an elegant showcase of contemporary Scottish style. This premium retail space, complete with an in-house coffee shop, blends refined design with timeless craftsmanship — a true reflection of the brand’s high-end identity. At Solas Signs, we were proud to play a key role in the extensive refurbishment of this landmark site, collaborating closely with S+Co to deliver a cohesive signage package that elevates the entire customer experience.

Creating a Unified Brand Experience

From the outset, our goal was to design and implement signage that would both complement Kiltrane’s luxurious aesthetic and respect the architectural character of the building. The result is a carefully balanced combination of traditional materials, modern techniques, and brand-aligned detailing that brings the vision to life.

Every element — from exterior lettering to interior features — was developed with consistency in mind. By maintaining a unified approach across all signage touchpoints, we ensured that customers encounter a seamless brand journey from the moment they approach the shopfront to their time inside the café.

Bespoke Exterior Signage That Sets the Tone

The exterior of Kiltrane establishes a strong visual identity that immediately communicates quality and sophistication. Our team crafted and installed a series of bespoke features, including 3D cut lettering across multiple elevations, brass signage plaques, an orange metal-framed projecting sign, and precisely applied window vinyls.

Each component was designed to align with Kiltrane’s refined palette while enhancing the building’s historic architecture. The combination of orange metalwork and brass tones introduces warmth and energy, while the crisp 3D lettering offers depth and definition. The result is an exterior that feels both contemporary and sympathetic to its surroundings.

The projecting sign, framed in the brand’s signature orange, acts as a standout feature visible from key vantage points, guiding customers toward the entrance and setting the stage for the experience within.

Interior Detailing and Cohesive Design

Inside, the attention to detail continues. Brass-style “Kiltrane” signs were installed behind both the main and upper-level cash desks, ensuring brand visibility at every customer interaction point. These signs reflect ambient light beautifully, adding a touch of understated luxury that reinforces the high-end shopping atmosphere.

In the lower-level coffee area, a custom “K” feature introduces a subtle nod to the brand’s identity while maintaining design continuity with the main retail floors. The café also features a vibrant orange price list that mirrors the exterior colour accents, creating visual cohesion throughout the space.

To complement the warm, luxurious environment, we also designed brass-toned window vinyls that emulate the charm of traditional hand-painted signage. These offer the flexibility for easy updates while retaining a crafted, timeless look — a perfect blend of practicality and design integrity.

A Collaboration Built on Craft and Care

Working alongside the talented team at S+Co, we approached the Kiltrane project as a fully integrated design collaboration. From concept development to final installation, every stage of the process focused on precision, quality, and the seamless merging of materials and finishes.

This partnership allowed us to explore creative solutions that enhanced both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the space. The result is a store environment that feels cohesive and welcoming — a physical expression of Kiltrane’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and Scottish heritage.

Elevating Retail Spaces Through Design

The Kiltrane project demonstrates how thoughtful signage design can elevate the atmosphere and identity of a retail environment. By combining premium materials, expert fabrication, and careful placement, signage becomes more than a directional or decorative feature — it becomes part of the storytelling.

At Solas Signs, we understand the importance of creating spaces that communicate a brand’s values at every touchpoint. Whether it’s handcrafted 3D lettering, illuminated features, or elegant interior accents, our team works to produce signage that enhances both customer experience and brand identity.