University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness Research Group studies the relationship people share with the natural world and responds with encouraging interventions that improve well-being.
Our partnership has resulted in multiple communication projects sharing a consistent, charming brand identity. They include two Nature Connection Handbooks (one for the general public and a second for businesses), a parent and child activity pack, conference materials, and social media graphics.
Client
University of Derby
What we did
Brand identity
Creative direction
Illustration
Digital design
Social media design
Print design
Publication design
Print production
Toolkit
Exhibition design
Establishing a nature-inspired identity
The Group wanted to place the natural world at the heart of the project. Accordingly, we set out to establish a visual identity defined by elements of the environment that define our day-to-day lives.
The project’s colour palette is drawn from the seasons and used to distinguish four sections of an initial publication, the Nature Connection Handbook.
We visualised the concept of nature connection with an adaptable framing device. Comprised of lines and type, it suggests a relationship between two title words and the content housed within. Its simplicity allows it to grow, decline, and regrow, hinting at nature’s cyclical beauty.
Our approach to colour evolved to complement the project’s second, longer publication, the Nature Connected Organisations Handbook. We’ve used a single colour to characterise each publication section and white to highlight details.
Conscientious illustration
We collaborated with illustrator Catherine Chialton to create lively and engaging illustrations in a graphic style that appeals to a diverse audience.
Catherine’s mindful work depicts distinct outdoor activities yet remains purposefully open and unconcerned with specific locations and people. This decision helps to position the project as a champion of inclusivity.
Conscientious illustration
We collaborated with illustrator Catherine Chialton to create lively and engaging illustrations in a graphic style that appeals to a diverse audience.
Catherine’s mindful work depicts distinct outdoor activities yet remains purposefully open and unconcerned with specific locations and people. This decision helps to position the project as a champion of inclusivity.
Designing for multiple digital platforms
We designed both Handbooks for reading in PDF format on desktop screens, but that’s not all; we purposefully created a layout that divides into communications sized to fit social media feeds.
Admittedly, most smartphones are at odds with nature. In this case, we embraced mobile to free readers from their desks and encourage them into nature.
“Thank you for delivering such a beautiful project and for being great to work with. It’s an absolute pleasure.”
Carly Butler
Researcher in Nature Connectedness
University of Derby
Connecting Families with Nature is an outdoor activity pack for young children, parents, and guardians.
With durability and practicality in mind, we created a portable card deck printed on a coated, 
recycled matt board.
Aligning the printed size to a 9:16 smartphone aspect ratio, we delivered a single design solution for print and digital.
