Grant allocated by Covington for revamping the renowned neon symbol belonging to SparkHaus.
SparkHaus Sign Refurbishment: A Symbol of Covington's Evolution
In the heart of Covington, Kentucky, a historic 1950s neon sign is being revitalized as part of the adaptive reuse of the Sims building at 721-731 Madison Avenue. This iconic sign, originally from the Sims Furniture building, is being transformed into a beacon for the region's entrepreneurial future as part of SparkHaus, an innovative hub for Northern Kentucky.
The refurbishment project is a collaborative effort between Urban Sites, Klusty Sign Associates, the American Sign Museum, and Durham Brands. The City of Covington has shown its commitment to preserving local heritage and fostering economic development by providing a $7,500 incentive through its Small Business Program.
A Step Back in Time
The electric sign dates back to the 1950s and was associated with Sims Furniture, a significant local business of the era. Preserving the sign connects modern entrepreneurial activity with Covington’s historical identity, symbolizing the city’s evolution and commitment to innovation.
Restoration and Design
The restoration maintains the sign’s original mid-century electric style, carefully updating it for visibility and relevance to SparkHaus. Experts from specialized sign and historic preservation firms contributed to the project to ensure authenticity and quality. The refurbished sign is expected to boost the visibility of SparkHaus as it welcomes startups and high-growth companies.
A Hub for Entrepreneurs
SparkHaus functions as a regional hub for startups, offering coworking spaces, private offices, and meeting rooms, creating a community for entrepreneurs. The refurbished sign will visibly anchor this new hub in the physical and cultural landscape of Covington, reinforcing the city's role in regional innovation and economic vitality.
This project exemplifies a thoughtful blend of historic preservation and modern economic development, reflecting Covington’s dedication to honoring its past while supporting future growth. SparkHaus, opening in September, is a partnership between Kenton County, the Northern Kentucky Port Authority, and Blue North. It aims to unite Northern Kentucky’s high-growth entrepreneurs with the support system and capital they need to ignite.
The refurbished sign will symbolize a new chapter in business creation and community revitalization in Covington. The City of Covington's Historic Electric Sign Incentive Program, launched to support revitalization efforts, encourages businesses and residents alike to live, work, and thrive in the downtown area.
[1] City of Covington, (2022). SparkHaus Sign Refurbishment [Press Release]. Retrieved from https://www.covingtonky.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/11540
[2] Urban Sites, (2022). SparkHaus [Project Overview]. Retrieved from https://urbansites.com/portfolio/sparkhaus/
[3] American Sign Museum, (2022). Neon Sign Restoration [Services]. Retrieved from https://americansignmuseum.org/neon-sign-restoration/
[4] City of Covington, (2021). Historic Electric Sign Incentive Program [Program Information]. Retrieved from https://www.covingtonky.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/10907
- The refurbished neon sign, a remnant of Northern Kentucky's history, will serve as a symbol of SparkHaus' role in the region's entrepreneurial future.
- SparkHaus, located in Covington, Kentucky, is a partnership between the local government, Kenton County, and the Northern Kentucky Port Authority, aiming to foster small businesses and career development.
- The sign, associated with a significant local business of the past, Sims Furniture, will now herald the arrival of innovative startups and high-growth companies at SparkHaus.
- As part of Covington's dedication to balancing preservation and progress, the City of Covington has launched the Historic Electric Sign Incentive Program, offering aid to businesses and residents revitalizing downtown.
- The diversified real-estate market in Covington, featuring commercial properties alongside housing, continues to attract new businesses and residents with its evolving charm.
- The refurbished sign is anticipated to significantly boost the visibility of SparkHaus, demonstrating the community's commitment to fostering regional leadership in entrepreneurship and finance.
- Investing in Covington's housing market, particularly downtown, alongside supporting small businesses, is essential to the city's vision of sustained growth and vitality.
- The close collaboration between Urban Sites, Klusty Sign Associates, the American Sign Museum, Durham Brands, and the City of Covington is a testament to the shared commitment towards preserving local heritage and stimulating economic development.
- Covington's leadership in fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurship and business careers is inspiring, attracting innovative minds to contribute to the city's unique and robust community.
