New association formed to save Sabadell's historic commercial signs

Graphic designers launch 'Patrimoni Gràfic Sabadell' to preserve the visual identity of the city's traditional shops.

Generic image of a vintage commercial sign recovered for preservation.
IA

Generic image of a vintage commercial sign recovered for preservation.

A group of designers in Sabadell has established the non-profit association Patrimoni Gràfic Sabadell to protect and archive the city's historic commercial signage and graphic identity.

The initiative started when Pol Abran saved the original sign of the iconic Frankfurt Permanyer during last year's Festa Major. Alongside Judit Carcolse and Gerard Arderius, the group now documents materials, authorship, and locations of vintage signs to prevent them from being destroyed.

"We want to protect and promote graphic heritage, all the elements like signs and stationery that give identity to commerce and streets."

Pol Abran · Association founder
While some pieces, such as the Casa Sanz sign from Ca n'Oriac, are temporarily stored at the Escola Illa, the association is seeking institutional support from the Sabadell City Council to find a permanent space for restoration and public exhibition.