Downtown – Keyport, New Jersey
We visited Keyport, New Jersey, for my 41st birthday. Following dinner at Old Glory, we walked around the downtown and got some cake and ice cream.
This bank building had dramatic lighting. Adjustable sconces provide up and down lighting. These lights highlight the cornice to make it stand out further.
Inside the former bank building it appears to be used for storage. The potential is strong for this to become an event space with its high ceilings and dramatic windows.
Another distinctive building across the street from the bank is McDonagh’s Pub. Here too lighting helps to enhance this building and create a sense of visual interest and also safety for people visiting the downtown at night. Lighting is one of the most important and also frequently neglected urban design elements.
Signage in the upper windows of this building indicate the area’s first rooftop bar is “Coming Soon.” The three story height of the building should offer views of the surrounding downtown and the waterfront.
This lawn area and simple chairs activate the area outside of the ice cream store.
Finally, a mural refers to Fred Astaire getting his vaudeville start in Keyport. The display of an adult Astaire rather than child is somewhat misleading, for Astaire was only 6 years old when he first performed in Keyport.
Visit in March 2023
The wayfinding sign in Keyport is simple in execution yet effective. Better would be to have the parking wayfinding, and the proper site wayfinding to be consistent colors and design.
Keyport Fishery, beside the water is an iconic spot with fried fish and a cash only policy. While sometimes there can be a line leading outside, it moves quickly.
Nothing is better than heading out to the water and eating Keyport Fishery while watching people fishing and others enjoying themselves outdoors.