Challenge

Wichita’s largest architectural firm, LawKingdon Architecture, entered its fourth decade in business with a client base that had broadened from retail to an almost limitless array of hospitality, healthcare, institutional and urban developments. Unfortunately, while its portfolio has evolved, its corporate image hadn’t. LawKingdon also faced a growing challenge: how to attract the hottest new talent to replace vacancies left by retiring baby boomers. The firm decided that a complete brand overhaul was in order.

Insight

LawKingdon is known throughout the industry for its expertise. A high concentration of engineers helps ensure that large, multifaceted projects are completed on time and on budget. Its reputation is a great asset. However, a solid, proven brand built on an expectation of quality and fiscal responsibility does not necessarily connote an ability to produce innovative designs. LawKingdon needed a brand that lent cohesion to the firm, highlighted team members’ creativity and celebrated the firm’s unique strengths.

Solution

There was real equity in the LawKingdon logo: to scrap it would have been foolish. We dropped the “Inc.” and gave the logo and wordmark a facelift. An aggressive new color palette and a tagline helps define their process and reminds architects to: Inspire. Create. Achieve.

We applied the updated brand to a variety of media. A new stationery package and proposal template provides day-to-day brand continuity while a dynamic website communicates the revamped brand to the world. The renovated LawKingdon office itself is a portfolio. Reimagined office spaces paired with interior wall graphics create a showcase of what the 21st century office should be — motivating, modern and collaborative.

Since a company’s employees are its most important brand advocates, an internal event was organized complete with pocket-sized graphic standards to make sure team members understand and embrace the brand. An oversized, three-dimensional invitation lent a must-attend air to a VIP event that debuted LawKingdon’s revamped office and brand to clients, city officials and business leaders.

Results

The response from LawKingdon’s rebranding has been phenomenal. Current and prospective clients comment on the firm’s fresh, modern and progressive presentation. LawKingdon’s invigorated brand has breathed new life into this architectural institution, generating buzz both in and out of the office. Equally important, it’s helping attract new clients and talent. Out with the old has never been so good for business.