Moor Studio News

High on Design

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 20:27:20 GMT

ACK Natural cannabis dispensary offers a curated menu of high quality cannabis products. Located on Nantucket Island, the dispensary features a welcoming retail space and a pristine underground growing facility.

When marijuana was legalized in Massachusetts, the founders of ACK Natural envisioned a place where both newcomers to cannabis and educated connoisseurs could purchase the best quality cannabis products on island. They turned to Moor Studio to design their logo and branding which would appear on all ACK Natural packaging, merchandise, and marketing.

Visit www.acknat.com

Pop-up Logo

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 19:02:47 GMT

Pop-Up Labs for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) operates a mobile science lab that pops up at schools, youth organizations, and public spaces to provide enrichment opportunities to students across O'ahu, Hawaii.

When the founder of Pop-Up Labs for STEAM came to us with the concept for her non-profit organization, we knew we wanted to help make her idea a reality. We donated our design services to provide Pop-Up Labs for STEAM with a logo and brand identity system in support of their mission to help youth discover their potential in the fields while inspiring commitment to protect our Earth.

Something Fishy

lancekel@comcast.net (Lance Kelly) — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 18:57:05 GMT

Topspin Fishing Charters specializes in inshore and offshore sportfishing in the waters surrounding Nantucket Island. Whether you’re up for a full day of deep sea fishing, a half day closer to shore, or just some incredible sightseeing, Topspin offers memorable experiences on the water.

When Captain Carl of Topspin purchased a new charter fishing boat he knew it was the right time to refresh their identity. We redesigned the Topspin logo and launched a new website that reflects the fun and excitement of being out on the water.

Visit www.topspinfishing.com

Our Most Difficult Client.

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 16:50:36 GMT

We just launched a new website for our most difficult client - ourselves! One of the hardest things for any designer to do is design for themselves. We are our own worst critics, and we always put our clients’ needs first. Our goal was to design a new website for Moor Studio that is visually engaging, showcases our work, outlines our services, and inspires potential clients to get in touch.

As we approached this project we thought about all the things we tell our clients about web design, and decided to follow our own advice:

Say it straight.

Before any design work happens, you need to have a clear vision of who you are and who you want to engage. Speak directly to your target audience in a voice that feels authentic, and support your message with dynamic visuals. Your ideal clients will know right away that they are in the right place.

Maria Mitchell Association is all about inspiring a passion for science and "learning by doing". To illustrate their mission, we included a dynamic slideshow and video reel on their home page.
www.mariamitchell.org

Keep it simple.

People have come to your website looking for something. Maybe they need a specific service or product, or maybe they want to learn more about your organization and how to get involved. Make your website easy to navigate so that people can readily find what they're looking for.

Marine Home Center offers a huge array of products and services. We made their website easy to use with a simple navigation menu and clearly organized page structure.
www.marinehomecenter.com

Show and tell.

Here comes the hardest part…you’ve got to tell people how awesome you are. It's not easy to write about yourself, so simply tell us who you are and what you offer, and don't underestimate the value of professional copywriting and headshots. Testimonials are a powerful tool to back up your claims with real world examples.

Sometimes showing the people behind the company helps make personal connections and builds trust. For Cross Rip Builders we designed an About page that tells the story of the team's unique partnership.
www.crossripbuilders.com

Current Events.

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 18:00:15 GMT

Nantucket Current is the newest e-newsletter from N Magazine . Written and edited by Jason Graziadei, Nantucket Current delivers breaking news, in-depth reporting, and compelling stories from Nantucket island to your inbox.

The team at N Magazine looked to us to design a unique wordmark and co-branded visual identity that would empower them to launch the Nantucket Current e-newsletter and promote reader subscriptions. Subscribe here: https://n-magazine.com/join-n/

Science Meets Design.

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 12:17:00 GMT

For over 25 years we have been fans and supporters of the Maria Mitchell Association . Located on Nantucket Island, MMA operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, and preserves the historic birthplace of astronomer Maria Mitchell. Raising a family on island, we have taken our boys on countless visits to MMA properties and enjoyed annual science fairs and summer camps. So when MMA approached us to design a new website we jumped at the opportunity.

The existing MMA website was outdated and not mobile friendly. Over the years staff members added various pages and content, making it difficult to navigate. Our goal was to design a new website with a cleaner, simpler interface and dynamic content that enables MMA to promote their programs and events, and provides visitors and members with an engaging online experience.

We launched the new Maria Mitchell Association website just in time for 2021 summer camp registration, and continue to work with MMA to develop their brand identity and promote the Maria Mitchell Women of Science Symposium. We’re thrilled to play a part in the success of an organization that has enriched our lives and inspired generations of science enthusiasts on Nantucket.

Visit www.mariamitchell.org >

Living History.

Sat, 03 Oct 2020 02:41:03 GMT

This year has been one for the history books in so many ways…some good, mostly really challenging.

At home, we talk to our kids about what we can do to be on the right side of history. In the studio, we talk about how we can help our nonprofit and small business clients make it through these tough times. Sometimes our actions seem so small in the face of the huge issues the world is facing, but we can all find ways to be part of the movement.

Moor Historic.

Over the past year we were trusted with the task of redesigning logos for several businesses that have defied the odds and kept their doors open for decades. Refreshing the logo of a historic brand requires tremendous care and respect. The goal is to build upon the brand loyalty that has been earned over generations while updating their identity to keep pace with the changing times.

Harvey A. Young started Young’s Bicycle Shop out of his home on Nantucket in 1931, and soon after moved the business to Broad Street. Currently owned by Harvey S. Young with the help of his kids, the Young family has been operating this well loved island institution for four generations. Their iconic bicycle wheel sign marks one of the first businesses to greet visitors arriving on the ferry.

Harbor Fuel has been serving Nantucket homes and businesses since 1964. Together with Yates Island Gas , Airport Gas and Mid Island Fuel, the Island Energy Services family of companies keeps Nantucket warm all winter and fueled up all summer.

Women's Development Corporation was founded in Providence, Rhode Island in 1979 by professional women with expertise in architecture and design, community planning and historic preservation. Together with Housing Opportunities Corporation, WDC/HOC develops and manages quality affordable housing for low and moderate income families, people with special housing needs and seniors.

Virtual Reality.

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 19:10:15 GMT

It has been an unusual summer to say the least, and while we can't party like we used to, we can still find ways to safely come together to celebrate and support each other. Whether online or outdoors, our main focus this summer has been helping our nonprofit clients reimagine their big summer fundraisers.

Moor virtual events.

Nantucket Conservation Foundation , whose mission is to preserve and maintain the natural beauty of the island, has kept their properties open but had to cancel a number of events and activities this season. We helped them turn the Race for Open Space into a virtual race so that runners everywhere could participate safely, and it has been great fun to work on branding and marketing for the drive-in Concerts for Conservation series happening in August.

Nantucket Island Safe Harbor for Animals (NiSHA) had to hit paws (sorry) on their annual summer gala, but their dedication to the animals never falters. To raise the funds they depend upon to care for animals in need, we helped design marketing and event collateral for their virtual event on July 31st, 2020 Vision: Keep Our Shelter In Place . We also launched a new website for NiSHA this summer, so you can register for the event at nishanimals.org .

Nantucket Cottage Hospital usually hosts the biggest party of the year, and while we will not be gathering by the thousands at Jetties Beach, we will come together in spirit for the broadcast of Boston Pops for Nantucket . On August 8th you can watch the show from the safety of your home while supporting the critical services NCH provides for the island community.

Time to Adapt.

Fri, 15 May 2020 14:41:28 GMT

The pandemic has changed the way we work and how we measure success. We are all thinking about how to survive these times and set ourselves up to thrive in the future. Here's what our clients are saying:

Can we talk?

Whether you have a specific design need or just want to brainstorm about how your business can adapt, we love hearing from you. We have never charged for creative consultations, so please don’t hesitate to reach out .

I need a new website.

We have always believed that having a strong web presence is important, but now it is vital. We are here to help keep your clients informed and your customers coming back. If you are considering selling products online we would be glad to talk about e-commerce options.

How do we raise money?

With summer events being cancelled or postponed, nonprofit organizations are facing major challenges this year. We are working with our clients to set up virtual events and online fundraisers, while keeping their supporters informed and engaged.

A Decade of Logos.

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 16:39:15 GMT

The start of a new decade has us thinking about all the logos we designed over the past 10 years. From small local businesses to national nonprofit organizations, we love helping people succeed using the designs we create. Here's a sampling of a decade of Moor Studio logos. See if you can spot your own business or one of your favorite brands!

Thank you for a wonderful year!

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 14:44:28 GMT

We are so thankful for all of our clients and friends who helped make 2019 a wonderful year. You trusted us to design logos for your new businesses, refresh your established brands, launch your new websites, and market your message across all media. We learn something from every project and have a lot of fun along the way. Thank you!

This project was laughable.

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 01:27:01 GMT

Karen Morgan’s clean comedy is a hit with audiences in theaters & performing arts centers and at corporate events, charity fundraisers, civic events, wellness retreats, and school fundraisers. Her work is professional but never boring, outrageously funny yet appropriate for a wide audience.

Moor gave Karen the toolset she needs to market her comedic talent far and wide with a new brand identity system and website . Check out the dates of her upcoming shows , maybe there will be one near you. We have been lucky enough to catch her act a number of times at the Nantucket Comedy Festival . Trust us, she’s hilarious!

Visit www.karenmorgan.com >

Will travel for inspiration.

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT

As designers, the success of our work depends upon our creativity. Inspiration rarely comes while staring at a computer screen, so this summer we made it a priority to step away from our desks and seek inspiration out in the world.

Moor travel.

Scandinavia is a design lover’s paradise, and Danish modern art and architecture have been a major influence on our design aesthetic at work and in our home. So in August we packed up the kids and embarked on a design tour of Denmark. From outstanding museum exhibits to local art studios, and from impressive modern architecture to charming historic streets, every day was inspiring.

Moor inspiration.

Of course you don’t have to travel all the way to Scandinavia for design inspiration. Back in Providence, Lance took a tour of the DWRI Letterpress studio and tried his hand at operating a vintage press. Marty spent her summer evenings cultivating a colorful pollinator haven . We all came out to Chalk the Block .

Moor success stories.

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Check out the logo and vehicle branding we designed for a new Nantucket concrete and excavation company, Strang, LLC . Ernie Strang is a hard working islander and well respected member of the community, and we wish him the best!

Strang, LLC

ACK Natural

Congratulations to our client ACK Natural , who was approved by the Nantucket Planning Board to open a marijuana dispensary on the island. The logo and packaging mockups we designed for their line of cannabis products, Altar, were recently featured in N Magazine .

A whale of a logo.

Fri, 24 May 2019 11:51:13 GMT

Every now and then someone walks into our studio and asks us to design a logo for their grassroots nonprofit organization. These are some of the most hardworking people we know, community members that spend their time making Nantucket and the world a better place. Usually they have been getting by with some artwork done by volunteers, but the time has come for them to up their game and look more professional.

We believe in the power of design to elevate an organization’s image, empower people to spread their message, and foster internal pride and motivation. We also know a good cause when we see one, and when we have the opportunity to donate our services and help a worthy organization succeed, we’re all in.

That’s just what happened when Scott Leonard, founder and CEO of Marine Mammal Alliance Nantucket (MMAN), came to us looking for a logo. MMAN is a local nonprofit organization with global reach that works to protect marine mammals and their environment. Check out how we designed a brand identity system for them here, and to learn how you can help protect marine mammals, please visit nantucketmarinemammals.org

How to avoid a brand identity crisis.

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 12:02:35 GMT

Whether your business is big, small, or just getting off the ground, your brand identity is one of your most valuable marketing assets. It’s the visual language of your company and it shapes the first impression people form of your brand. A successful brand identity speaks to your target audience, helps you reach new clients and builds customer loyalty. However, if your brand identity is dated or unresolved it could cost you your current customers and hinder you from attracting new ones. Making sure your brand identity is on point is one of the best things you can do for your business.

So wait, what is brand identity?

First thing’s first, let’s clarify the difference between your brand and your brand identity.

Your brand is composed of all the intangible things that influence how people think and feel about your company. The relationships you build, the experiences of your clients, and the expectations consumers have about your products or services all make up your brand.

Your brand identity is the visual representation of your company. Your logo, wordmark, typography, colors, and other graphic assets form a system that over time come to represent your brand. Your brand identity influences both how you and your staff feel about your company and how the public perceives you.

A successful brand identity represents your business, resonates with your customers, builds brand loyalty, and helps you achieve your goals. The flip side is also true: if your brand identity feels dated or out of touch with your customers and the current market it could be costly. Your loyal customers may start slipping away and you could have a hard time attracting new ones. Maybe you’re trying to bring your business to the next level but you still look a little unprofessional. To make sure that your brand identity is an asset and not a liability, we recommend conducting a brand identity audit.

Everyone loves a good before-and-after story: Logo redesigns for GroundsKeeper (Ashland, MA), Marine Home Center (Nantucket, MA) and Mount Vernon Company (Boston, MA). Paragraph

Yikes, did you say audit?

The word audit sounds scary, but really it’s just an analysis of how your branding is or isn’t working for you. Together we look at which qualities of your brand identity are supporting your goals and which ones are holding you back. Sometimes we find that a brand refresh is just what you need to update your look and reinvigorate your business. Other times we determine that your current branding just isn't speaking to your target audience and a rebrand is in order. There are even times when we decide that your brand identity is working just fine and maybe it’s your marketing or website that are missing the mark. Should you decide to rebrand your company we can help you plan a strategy to launch your new identity with specific steps to minimize brand confusion.

Keep it simple.

Beyond making sure that the style of your brand identity is appropriate for your business, your logo must work anywhere you choose to apply it. The most memorable and effective logos are simple, flexible, and easy to use across a broad range of applications. To determine if a design will be successful, we ask questions about where it may be used. How does it look as a social media icon? Would it work in black and white? Could it be embroidered on a hat? If it can be scaled big or small, in print or digital, single or multi color, you can feel confident it’s up to the task.

This is the first time we asked: Can it be made out of Play-Doh?

Ready to talk brand identity? We love this stuff, and there’s no charge to chat.

Design is for the birds.

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Some days I have a clear vision of what I want to achieve at work, I sit down at my desk and I don’t stop working until the job is done. Those productive days feel amazing, and there’s nothing quite as satisfying as crossing something off my task list. Here at Moor Studio we call this state of focus being a woodpecker.

Woodpecker energy is about drive and determination. It's identifying a goal and staying focused until you achieve it. It’s committing to a task and hammering away.

Other days I sit down to work and the next thing I know, hours have gone by with very little to show for it. Emails are coming in, clients are calling, friends are texting, and I'm jumping from project to project without actually crossing anything off my list. We call this mode of darting around from one thing to the next being a hummingbird.

Hummingbird energy is fast and fleeting. It’s about short bursts of attention, dipping in and out, getting what you need and moving on.

Generally speaking I’m a woodpecker by nature, and I would beat myself up for having hummingbird days. When I looked at my task list without a single item crossed off, the day felt like a waste. But it’s nearly impossible to maintain focus all the time, and inevitably things come up that distract us from our agenda. In an effort to be a little more kind to myself, I started to think about how brilliant each bird is at its job. Woodpeckers may be the ones to see a task through to completion, but hummingbirds bring new ideas and fresh perspectives to a project.

When it’s time to do some rapid fire brainstorming, you’ve got to be the hummingbird. Embrace that energy, be quick and agile, and don’t get hung up on any one idea. If you need to reply to a bunch of emails, make some calls and check social media, go ahead and be the hummingbird. Social media creates a hummingbird mentality, so if you go there just remember to make it quick and move along.

However, if you have a project that requires prolonged focus and a deadline is approaching, it’s time to be the woodpecker. Step away from the social media, close your email, silence your phone and buckle down. The woodpecker mentality is all about persistence and tackling big goals. Stay put, concentrate, and hammer away.

Both birds are perfectly designed for their job. The key is to identify the energy you need to bring to your day and own the mode that you’re in.

Just don’t be a chicken.

Marine Home Center introduces new logo.

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 13:09:18 GMT

This week Marine Home Center introduced its new logo and visual identity. Looking to establish a unified brand across departments and communicate the breadth of its offerings, the new identity signals a positive evolution within the company.

Established in 1944, Marine Home Center started out as a lumber supplier and has grown into a full service building and home improvement retail complex. The updated anchor icon marks the evolution of the company, while the identity maintains the signature color green that is associated with the brand. The new logo and identity system, designed by Nantucket based branding firm Moor Studio, ushers Marine Home Center into a new era while remaining grounded in its heritage.

This spring keep a lookout for new Marine Home Center signage, fresh vehicle branding, apparel and more.

View the full Case Study

New look for Mount Vernon Company.

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 13:19:45 GMT

In the summer of 2015 we met with Bruce Percelay on Nantucket to talk about the visual identity of his Boston based real estate investment firm, Mount Vernon Company. MVC boasts an extensive portfolio of residential and commercial properties, and some of their recent projects include cutting edge environmentally advanced communities and boutique hotels throughout New England. MVC’s logo, with its historic script style wordmark, did not reflect their innovative approach to development. It was time for their branding to keep pace with their business.

We started by designing a contemporary brand identity system that is representative of an award winning real estate firm. We then designed a fully editable CMS website to showcase MVC’s portfolio of properties, their dedication to service and commitment to the community. We continue to partner with MVC to keep their website current and looking great.

View the Mount Vernon Website

Stand up comedy, all winter long

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 12:22:39 GMT

What could be better than having a major belly laugh for a great cause? Throughout the year Stand Up & Learn brings nationally recognized standup comics to the Nantucket Dreamland theater for a night of laughter in support of the island-based comedy education program. Seriously, you do not want to miss these hilarious comics!

Stand Up & Learn is a program for students ages 8-18 that boosts confidence through storytelling and performance. During weekend workshops students work as a team to write and practice comedic stories from their own lives and perform original standup routines on the Dreamland stage in front of an audience. Moor Studio is proud to provide creative direction and design to Stand Up & Learn and the Nantucket Comedy Festival, an annual summer event that brings top comics to Nantucket as the major fundraiser for Stand Up & Learn.

View the Nantucket Comedy Festival Website

idNantucket says, "call us Moor Studio".

Sun, 15 Jan 2017 13:25:30 GMT

After 10 years doing business as Image Design Studio (aka idNantucket), we have changed our name to Moor Studio.

The name Image Design Studio served us well when we were just a Nantucket based graphic design studio. Over the years we have grown into a multimedia design studio with clients throughout the Northeast, and it’s time that our name better represent the scope of our business.

So what’s with the name Moor? When we need to do some creative problem solving we like to step away from the computer and head out into nature. From our home on the east end of Nantucket there are trails that wind through the moors all the way to the ocean. Some of our best ideas come to us while we walk through these moors.

We’re the brand new studio you've always loved, just, well, Moor.

Check out our case studies to see what we’ve been up to lately.