South Flats is an emerging neighborhood located near Great Northern Way in Vancouver, Canada. Known for its creative energy, the area is home to prestigious institutions such as Emily Carr University of Art + Design, the Center for Digital Media, and Vancouver Community College. It also hosts regional offices of major tech companies like Samsung, Lululemon, and Electronic Arts. This unique blend of education, innovation, and creativity makes South Flats a thriving hub for collaboration, startups, and artistic expression. The district’s identity reflects its role as a forward-thinking, dynamic, and welcoming space within Vancouver.
The international design studio DNCO, that is known for its works with urban infrustructures, including the San Frabncisco brand, was tasked with creating a new visual identity for South Flats. Their goal was to capture the district’s ambitious spirit and elevate its visibility on Vancouver’s map. The result is a fresh, sophisticated brand that balances modernity with a sense of place, emphasizing themes of innovation, refinement, and hospitality.
The Evolution of the Logo
The previous South Flats logo had a distinctly youthful and edgy vibe, characterized by broken letterforms and a stylized “z” at the end of “Flatz.” This design, reminiscent of 1990s and 2000s aesthetics, effectively conveyed the district’s energy and dynamism. However, as design trends and urban branding strategies evolved, the logo began to feel outdated and no longer aligned with South Flats’ aspirations.
DNCO’s redesign introduces a more balanced and sophisticated logo. The new design corrects the spelling to “Flats” and employs a unique graphic perspective, where the wordmark appears to curve forward. This subtle three-dimensional effect creates a sense of movement and progression, symbolizing the district’s forward-looking ethos. The symmetry of the design is particularly striking, with “South” and “Flats” occupying equal space. Additionally, the logo begins and ends with the letter “S,” creating a visual loop that reinforces unity and continuity. Below the wordmark, the inclusion of “Vancouver” establishes a clear connection to the city, grounding the district within its broader urban context.
The Icon: A Nod to Local Landmarks
In addition to the wordmark, DNCO’s branding includes a standalone icon that represents one of South Flats’ most beloved landmarks: the sculptural pavilion. This structure, which houses a café and retail space, is a focal point for community interaction and creativity. While the icon was designed by an external artist, it seamlessly integrates into DNCO’s overall visual identity. The pavilion’s cherry-red hue became the foundation for the brand’s primary color, adding vibrancy and warmth to the palette.
Color Palette and Typography: Bold and Expressive
The color scheme for South Flats is both bold and harmonious. The cherry-red of the pavilion is complemented by green, blue, and pink, creating a dynamic contrast that reflects the district’s diversity and creativity. This palette is versatile, allowing for a range of applications while maintaining a cohesive brand identity.
The typography, featuring the Plakat Grotesk typeface by Kenneth Knutsen (Good Type Foundry), plays a crucial role in conveying South Flats’ character. Plakat Grotesk’s clean, geometric lines and modern aesthetic align with the district’s innovative spirit. The typeface is highly legible and adaptable, making it suitable for both digital and print media. It also serves as a storytelling tool, helping to communicate the unique narratives of South Flats and its community.
Imagery: Capturing the Spirit of South Flats
DNCO’s branding extends beyond logos and colors to include a collection of images that celebrate South Flats and its residents. These visuals capture the district’s creative energy and the positive impact it has on the people who live, work, and visit there. The imagery adds a layer of authenticity and charm, showcasing South Flats as a place that inspires imagination and fosters collaboration. By highlighting the human element, the brand reinforces its connection to the community and its role in shaping Vancouver’s identity.
Conclusion
DNCO’s work on South Flats’ visual identity is a thoughtful evolution of the district’s branding. The new logo, iconography, color palette, typography, and imagery come together to create a cohesive and compelling brand that reflects South Flats’ ambitious character and creative spirit. The redesign successfully balances modernity with a sense of place, ensuring that South Flats stands out as a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood within Vancouver.