DESIGN CHATTER
A New Identity: The Best 50th Birthday Present for Microsoft
Apr 11, 2025
Microsoft is turning 50 this year, so to celebrate, global design studio Koto delivered a fresh new brand identity that bridges the past, present, and future. Tapping into everything from clunky desktops and Paint nostalgia, to futuristic AI-powered apps, the campaign centers on the idea that “Change Needs Makers.” It’s bold, playful, and people-focused, balancing legacy with an eye towards the future. With dynamic visuals, a modern twist on the classic Windows logo, and a vibrant color palette,
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Super Studio Rises To The Occasion for Rose Bakery
Apr 09, 2025
Branding a bakery might sound like a dream gig, but for designer Carolane Godbout Isabel of Super Studio, it was all about breaking the mold for design. For client Rose Bakery, of Quebec, she ditched the typical bakery visuals and built a brand that feels as handmade as the bread itself. Inspired by dough scoring and using real bread scraps for printed textures, thanks to a clever idea from her daughter, Carolane created something simple, tactile,
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The Fonts that Set The Mood For TV & Film
Apr 04, 2025
Have you ever noticed a font in a movie and thought, I’ve seen that before? That’s because typography sets the tone before a word is spoken! Wes Anderson’s The Royal Tenenbaums wouldn’t be the same without Futura’s quirky precision, just like Stranger Things leans on ITC Benguiat to fuel its ‘80s nostalgia. And Avatar’s choice to use Papyrus…still under debate. From The Matrix’s techo-futurist Courier to Pulp Fiction’s bold Aachen, fonts shape how we experience stories.
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April Fool’s Day Hits, Misses, & Awkward Attempts At Humor
Apr 02, 2025
April Fools’ Day is always a mixed bag when it comes to brand pranks: some are hilarious, some are just plain weird, and a few make you question how that idea ever got approved. This year’s holiday saw everything from HOP WTR’s cheeky “Hoppi” rebrand to Deep Indian Kitchen’s attempt at chicken-flavored ice cream (yikes, no thank you). While some brands nailed the humor, others reminded us that universal humor is harder than it looks, especially when designers get AI in the mix.
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How chasing design trends can weaken your brand
Mar 31, 2025
Most businesses want to be seen as contemporary and professional. However, far too many of them make changes that go against their brand standards in an effort to keep up with modern trends.
We don’t have to go too far back to see examples of companies incorporating the latest fad into their branded campaigns. The mid-2000s were ripe with brands jumping on the bandwagon of flat web designs, minimalist geometric logos,
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Avoiding sticker shock: Setting realistic expectations for design estimates
Mar 31, 2025
You need a logo design or want to rebrand your business. Great! Now, you’ve reached out to an agency like ours to talk about your needs and get an estimate.
But once it’s in your hands, there’s a problem. This estimate is more than you expected, and there’s a bit of sticker shock.
Understanding what goes into design pricing can help you set realistic expectations and, hopefully, avoid being surprised by a quote.
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