What are hoardings?
As the first chapter of a new community’s story, hoardings are so much more than a legal safety requirement or a ‘nuisance fence’ of pretty pictures to conceal construction work. For many residents, what hoardings are is an excellent way to create the right ‘first impression’ of a housing association’s brand.
As a highly visible and powerful way of marketing the ‘social value’ of everything that a housing association stands for, hoardings are nothing less than a series of posters that can bring alive a proposed neighbourhood in the making, even before the first roof is erected.
The social value of hoardings
In a very real sense they can introduce, and be a showcase for, all the community benefits and amenities that are taking shape just beyond the scenes of families enjoying sunny communal gardens and outdoor play areas. You could also show off any energy efficient tech featured in your properties.
Something else that hoardings have the ability to explain in simple, easily understood graphical terms are the benefits and processes of shared ownership, or other complex buying schemes.
Hoardings design with the neighbours in mind
As a show of transparency, your hoardings could feature timelines showing build progress to help reduce any anxiety about construction length for the neighbourhood’s current residents.
To further demonstrate your commitment to the area whilst appealing to local civic pride, your hoardings could incorporate scenes from local history, photography of the existing neighbourhood, or local school art projects. (Our client, Aspire Housing, featured War Memorial Hoardings for Remembrance Day.)
The digital bridge
QR code integration linked to a ‘waitlist’ allows customers to register interest or take a virtual 360 tour by scanning a code with their smartphone.
As a social media hook, your hoardings could create “Instagrammable” spots such as artist-designed murals or interactive wings that encourage locals to become part of the picture, take photos and tag the development.
Maintenance best practices
When planning or designing your hoardings, consider the psychological importance of maintaining a clean site. Bear in mind the value of anti-graffiti protective coatings and regular cleaning to combat ‘broken window syndrome’ in the neighbourhood.
Consider also the sustainability factor during construction, and make use of recyclable, reusable, and responsibly sourced materials (like PVC-free options or timber from sustainable sources).
Discover how we can help your housing association or development connect better with your local community by contacting our team.