Good all round

In the central London neighbourhood of Bankside, where Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe sit cheek by jowl, a new destination emerges. Our brief was to give it a new name and brand to take it from unknown development to beloved public destination. 

Revolving around a central public circle, we gave this destination a confident new name: The Round. It not only spoke to the specialness of the architecture, but also the positive power of gathering together. 

For millennia, we have gathered in the round — from fireside chats to exchanging stories and sharing food at the table. Science shows that human connection is a vital force, fundamental to longer and fuller lives — also known as ‘social wellbeing’. Here at The Round, we captured its mission in a rallying call-to-action: All together now.

A symbol of gathering power

The symbol is a powerful distillation of the story. It conveys a strong sense of togetherness and speaks directly to the name, creating a recognisable asset in its own right. Like a zoetrope, the animated symbol builds momentum and gathers pace, bringing a sense of dynamism to the identity. 

We devised an energetic typographic system to deliver our new messaging with rhythm and punch. Taking our cues from architecture, lines of type are purposefully offset and staggered to match the unconventional angles of the buildings.

Well-rounded identity 

We expand our distinctive symbol into a rich visual world. Large-scale patterns, curved panels to frame photography and interiors that embrace softer edges. Graphic elements are constantly in an orbital motion, echoing the active nature of The Round's central public circle. 

Expressive and playful or refined and sophisticated, our identity has the range to connect with a global audience. Newly commissioned photography by Max Miechowski and art directed by us, brings warmth and elegance, and a palette of bright hues create a vibrant identity. We helped Hines launch this brand to market with a website, a suite of marketing materials and exclusive events. 
 

The social wellbeing workplace

Research overwhelmingly tells us that strong workplace connections fuel ideas and positive business culture. Offices at The Round are designed to do just that. Coupled with inventive floorplates that bring in 20% more natural light than a typical office block, we brought Hines's concept to life as: The social wellbeing workplace. 

Following an exciting launch, we’re continuing to roll out brand activations, including a residential sub-brand. More coming soon.