Aalto University Junior
Aalto University Junior, an entity of Aalto University, encourages children and the youth to dive into science, arts, technology, and economics by organizing free time events.
The brief was to design a brand identity, which would be recognizably part of the Aalto University, but would still stand out from within the main brand as a playful bright spot. It had to appeal to the youngest members of the family, yet also speak to the adults. The design won gold for Best Branding at the European Design Awards 2019.
More Info
client:
Aalto University
website:
contributions:
Brand strategy
Brand architecture
Brand identity
Logo design
Motion graphics
Art direction
Graphic design
Web design
awards:
European Design Awards, Gold Award, 2019
industry:
Education
Childlike curiosity and encouragement for open-minded experimenting were at the heart of all design. Out of the mouths of babes, they say. Thus that's the style we adapted too: direct, imaginative and delightful. We said 'no' to tight frames and conventions, and 'yes' to opportunities and diversity.
The logo is inspired by an electron circling around an atom, but can also be interpreted as a hula hoop, halo or even Saturn rings. The same playfulness cuts through, twiddling the logo, pictograms, and the photography concept. The symbols are fun and universal, shared icons among young and old.
The colour scheme is daring and experimental - just like kids are. With the combination of different visuals the end result is a combination of truth or dare, science, and childlike curiosity.
Aalto Junior has been a significant actor in Finnish education scene right from the beginning - from ministry level to classrooms.
The program gave an immediate impact in multidisciplinary contexts in the fields of science, technology, arts and business. Enjoying great success, the Junior lab reservations reached over 90% from maximum capacity.
“Working with BOND is characterised by close collaboration and open, fruitful discussions.”
"They have a proven unique capability to combine the University's understanding with creative and unexpected solutions" states Jaakko Salavuo from Aalto University.