Business establishments have traditionally used neon signs as the focal point of their signage, and it's easy to see why. Neon doesn't just look good the longer you look at it â it grabs attention almost instantly, which is exactly what a business signboard needs to do.
Why Businesses Prefer Neon Signs
No matter how big or small a business is, the chances of spotting neon signage outside or inside its space are high. Virtually every major community has neon signage somewhere nearby, and there are a few clear reasons why.
Long shelf life
Neon signs have an incredibly long shelf life. Properly designed neon lighting can last for years, far outlasting standard light fixtures that are typically rated in months.
Low energy use
Despite their brightness, neon signs actually consume less electricity than many traditional light sources, since the light comes from an electrical charge reacting with the sign's gas fill rather than a heated filament. Depending on the setup, that can mean energy savings of up to 70%.
Design flexibility
Unlike most other light sources, neon can be shaped and applied creatively. It isn't limited to flat, static signboards â it can be bent into nearly any form.
10 Creative Ways to Use Neon Signs at Home
Neon lighting isn't limited to storefronts and advertising. From home décor to art installations, here are 10 non-conventional ways people are using neon signs and light fixtures.
1. Bathroom décor
It might sound unlikely, but modern homes are increasingly integrating neon into bathroom design. A bright accent color adds a unique, refreshing touch to one of the home's most intimate spaces.
2. Nursery wall fixtures
Add a sense of adventure to a child's room with a custom neon fixture â spelling out a name, a favorite word, or a fun character. The options are largely limited only by imagination.
3. Accents on white walls
White-on-white was once considered a design misstep, but contemporary interiors are increasingly embracing bright installations against neutral backgrounds. A white or pastel neon piece on a white wall makes for a striking, minimal accent.
4. Quotes on walls
Looking for a fresh way to make an impression on visitors? A neon sign spelling out a favorite phrase or quote is an easy way to turn a plain wall into a talking point.
5. Shape outlines
Neon works well as an outline for other wall designs and accents â adding a pop of color while drawing attention to whatever it frames.
6. One-of-a-kind focal lights
Because neon is so flexible, it can be shaped into a standalone light fixture that becomes the centerpiece of a room, rather than just a supporting accent.
7. Decorative art pieces
Neon can be molded into figurative shapes or abstract designs alike. Whatever direction you take it, a custom neon art piece ends up being something genuinely one-of-a-kind.
8. Location markers
In dimly lit spaces, neon signage works well as a location marker or directional cue â whether that's labeling where you are or pointing the way somewhere else.
9. House numbers
A neon house number stays visible well after the sun goes down, making it both a practical and decorative choice for the exterior of a home.
10. Holiday and house outlines
During the holidays, neon can be used to outline a home's architecture as a distinctive alternative to string lights. Because neon is energy-efficient, this kind of larger installation doesn't have to come with a large electricity bill.
Get Creative With Your Own Neon Sign
Ready to bring one of these ideas into your own space? Request a quote from Neonific and let's talk about your next neon sign project.
One especially popular non-conventional use is turning a spare room into a personal arcade â see our ideas for neon signs for gaming rooms, or when you're ready to order, check out how to buy a custom neon sign.
