aad is 21: Branding through the years
aad is 21! That in itself is a reason to celebrate and reflect for any studio. With that in mind I’ve been digging through our archives and have picked out a selection of stand-out branding and identity projects from the studio’s past.
This was an enjoyable, and slightly nostalgic task for me. As I delved into the archives, I found many projects that I recognised, and most likely popped up on a mood board back in my college days and early career.
I’ve always known aad to produce bright, fun and engaging work. Projects that pop to mind are the likes of IAPI, Shape and &Open to Dublin Dance Festival, Fringe Festival and Showcase. I still have print ephemera from these in my own archive! All crafted, considered and hard-working branding projects. I’ve since had the pleasure of working on many directly now since starting with the team in 2019.
So anyway, here are my top 5!
1. Breac House
A world class luxury retreat North West Donegal. Working with local produce and makers, Breac House offers an authentic contemporary Irish experience. Firstly I really love this brand. It’s rich, textural and all about the experience. The website’s beautiful photography, videos, and thoughtfully crafted copywriting immediately give you a strong sense of place and space. Beyond the website, this holistic brand is reflected in every detail, with branded touches at every point showcasing the care and attention that owners Eoin and Catherine put into it.
It certainly makes me want to book a stay. Job done!
2. Corn Exchange
A golden oldie, and a favourite for many reasons. When I was studying design, it was this work for The Corn Exchange where I first came across aad. I saw the poster for Man of Valour and instantly booked myself a ticket (it did not disappoint). Everything about this identity embraced theatricality and filled with the audience with intrigue and curiosity.
2. Cushendale
This stands out to me as a highly accomplished brand. It is a wonderful blend of heritage, respect for materials and craftsmanship, with a fresh and contemporary feel.
It’s the little details that are so satisfying. The pop of orange on the label, the mixed papers in the swing tag, the crafted icons and seamless user journey online. Everything is considered. I recently was gifted one of their blankets and can say first hand that the unboxing experience really delivered.
But it is the photography that is really the chefs kiss moment on this project. Working with frequent studio collaborators Al Higgin’s (Photographer) and Stylist (Ciara O Donovan) the photography is contemporary, exciting and intriguing. Not what you would commonly expect from a heritage brand, in a very good way. Many images in this suite commissioned for the brand feel like they sit comfortably in an international high-end fashion or interior magazine. Hats off to Brian for the expert art-direction. Nicely done.
4. Saorview
Fun, colourful, Johnny Kelly (the animator, not our JK, but he’s also great) what’s not to love!
aad’s first project with Saorview was a rebrand in 2014. At the heart of this was a modular package of dynamic illustrations and animated icons. Bright and joyful, these assets were a smart way to tackle a variety of subjects while building the core brand in an economical way. Ten years later, we are still working together and, with odd refresh along the way, the brand is still going strong.
5. Dublin Writers Festival
Sometimes type and colour is all you need. This is an excellent example of just that. Using the tools that allow us to communicate and crafted them in a very well executed identity.
