vince frost state library redux

logo design derived from the interrobang symbol

frost* design, in collaboration with the australia's historic institution 'the state library of new
south wales', has undertaken a major brand repositioning project aimed at attracting future
generations of visitors. seeking a way to become more relevant in the 'internet age' and
attempting to find its voice in the global platform, the frost* team devised a comprehensive
program to uncover a singled minded strategic approach to be integrated into every touch
point of their rebranding solution.


style guide showcasing the application of new identity

'as we delved deep within the DNA of the state library and its incredible collection of
assets, we were continually and animatedly surprised by the rich, unique resources that
were just waiting to be unearthed. we came to realize that a visit to the state library of NSW
is most gratifying at that eureka moment of discovery, the happy surprise of finding
something which engages you and this is the single idea that runs consistently through
our approach. key to the strategy was creating a more emotive brand to excite audiences
and encourage deeper relationship with a broader audience.'- VF

this idea of 'surprising' appears in the execution of a new identity, which utilizes
the distinctive interrobang, a typographic punctuation created in 1962 symbolizing
both a question and an answer. the wordmark is based on a modified, unique serif,
designed to resemble the hand engraved type on the library's mitchell wing facade.










logo application








redesigned SLNSW website

however, the frost* team was careful that the identity strategy did not contemporize
the SLNSW brand at the expense of its heritage and intellectual weight. the typeface
design reflects its positioning as a long standing cultural institution, whilst conveying
a sense of modernity relevant to today's society.

this strategy is also reflected in the redesign of the website home page, which retains
an understated simplicity, but utilizes a clean contemporary sensibility with punctuations
of vibrant color.

'one hundred' alphabet'

the team also sought to bring to life the idea of 'surprising' in the creation of an intricate
alphabet commissioned as part of of the SLNSW's mitchell library centenary celebrations.
the bespoke typeface design celebrates the release of the 120 unique objects from
the mitchell library's  collection - many previously unseen by the public - that will be
released from the library vault. see more of this typographic design here.