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Optimistic

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Our essential optimism comes through in inspiring content and uplifting (but not clichéd or cutesy) design choices.

This value invites us to connect with the inspiring nature of our subject matter. How we can bring that to life through our aesthetic choices?

We want our designs to provide an optimistic frame that brings out the best in our content. What we don’t want is to deliver design work that feels simplistic, cutesy, or saccharine. By making choices that are uplifting but not clichéd, we create something that feels more honest and memorable. This is especially true in the university landscape, where we tend to see extremes (super basic, utilitarian design or highly colorful and idealized representations of university life). 

All-red ad from Desautels campaign

In the example above, we see optimism applied in a balanced way. The content of this ad is very upbeat - the smiling woman, the actual message about meaningful social enterprises. To balance that, the content is phrased in a concise way and the design choices are strong and clean:

  • A limited color palette with a darker range of reds
  • A high-impact approach to typography
  • Ample negative space

These choices serve as an excellent frame for the uplifting message the ad contains. A design with more serious content might have needed a lighter approach in the color and typography to create an optimistic but genuine feel.

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