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Shaping tomorrow's designers with Kolding School of Design

A black tote bag with the Kolding School of Design logo

Client: Kolding School of Design

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Industries

Evolving from school to university

Kolding School of Design was undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from a design school to a fully recognized design university. This evolution was marked by new physical spaces that prioritize transparency, a renewed educational framework, and a stronger emphasis on research and global partnerships.

They required a rebrand – one that would reflect these changes, while ensuring that Kolding remained at the forefront of design education in Denmark and internationally. The challenge was to create a system that was both structured and expressive, academic yet dynamic.

An open brochure for Kolding School of Design

The new identity applied


Challenge

Translating ambition into identity

Kolding’s evolution called for a brand that could bridge its heritage in craftsmanship with a future-focused outlook. The identity had to feel open and collaborative while maintaining the authority of a leading design institution. It also needed to support students, champion their work, and cultivate a strong sense of belonging – while reinforcing the school’s presence on the global stage.

A video showcasing design students, laid over their names and academic programs

Approach

A typographic-led, modular system

We crafted a visual identity that balances structure and openness. A typographic-led approach ensures clarity, while a custom-designed ‘K’ mark serves as both a framing device and a storytelling tool. The interplay of Victor Serif and Söhne fonts creates an academic yet contemporary tone, while textures and animations within the ‘K’ bring the identity to life, mirroring the iterative nature of design.

A person holding a balck tote bag with a large 'K' logo in white
An outdoor sign for an art school's graduate show
Design system for Kolding School of Design showcasing logos

Logo system

The new identity is more than a visual refresh. It’s a statement of intent and it reflects Kolding School of Design’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and shaping the future of design education.

Anders Rasmussen

Brand Experience Director

Manyone

Outcome

A living, evolving platform

The new identity positions Kolding School of Design as a leading force in design education. The modular system ensures consistency while allowing for creative flexibility across print, digital, and spatial applications. The refined color palette, dynamic typography, and adaptive ‘K’ mark create a platform that evolves with the institution, putting students and their work at the center of the brand.

A video for Kolding Design School highlighting different design students engaged in creative work
A 'K' logo against a light gray background
A 'K' logo with different textures filling the background
A printed Student Manual for Kolding School of Design on a wooden table
Typography with a serif and sans serif displayed

Typography

A light box with the Kolding School of Design logo
A 'K' logo in purple on a poster that says 'Design for Play'
A bulletin for a graduation show at a design school
A standing sign for the shop at a design school
This identity positions Kolding School of Design as a globally recognized design university, one that doesn’t just teach design but defines its future. The ambition is to attract the world’s most ambitious students, faculty, and collaborators, ensuring its influence extends far beyond Denmark.

Anders Rasmussen

Brand Experience Director

Manyone
The Kolding design school identity in a collage of photos, including a tote bag, signage, and ID cards
Four freestanding metal pillars with Kolding Design School posters attached

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