HIGH LOW LITERARY ARTS CAFE BRAND IDENTITY

The power of words. From its inception, High Low’s mission has been to offer a venue for freedom of expression through spoken and written word. A space which encourages creativity and literacy, where art can start and stand out. My approach to the design was to create an icon that captures the essence of literacy (book) with the need to socialize (coffee). While I desperately conceived interpretations of what High Low means, in the end a simple and sophisticated typographic treatment combined with the icon would be the foundation for the overall brand system. The starkness of the black and white palette worked well against the beautifully renovated architectural and interior features.

Architect: Space Signage: Engraphix Exterior sign painting: Phil Jarvis

Brand Vibe

A deep dive with the client team and some focused research lead to my interpretation of the overall brand essence of the project. My goal was to connect the idea of a modern day library with the casualness of a hip cafe and place to express oneself freely. This was the agreed upon premise from which the creative work manifested itself.

Coming Soon

As construction began and the gut renovation commenced, we wanted to get the public excited about what’s to come. This concept focused on illustrations of literary giants filling the windows.

While several names were explored, the donors endorsed HIGH LOW. Several identity directions were iterated before landing on the the coffee cup/book icon. (I was diggin’ the pencil/coffee cup/rocket ship concept).

The final lockup combines the icon with a bold type treatment in a stark black and white palette.

The architect did an tremendous job of honoring the original facade. My goal was to create signage which complemented the architecture and fit in with the overall neighborhood vibe. The painted signs and glowing READINGS box do just that.