As the highest-ranked university in Wales, Cardiff University is a world-leading institution, standing as a beacon of excellence in teaching and research for more than a century.

Over the past twelve months, we've worked with the university on a new brand strategy and refreshed visual identity to help them attract and retain the very best students and staff. 

As we got to know the history, culture and people of Cardiff University, we came to understand the unique spirit and shared sense of ambition that sits at the heart of the institution. Together in Progress, a new brand strategy developed with internal teams, serves to unite the brand going forward.

A shared drive towards universal progress presents a unique student proposition that is direct and distinctive — where other universities focus on individual success, Cardiff invites students to become part of an open, supportive, and intelligent community working together for the benefit of us all.

The wider visual identity lends vibrancy and consistency, with typography playing a leading role. The full case study can be seen here. 

We were delighted to have the opportunity to work with Commercial Type on the development of a series of bespoke ligatures that highlight the university’s proud Welsh heritage and their desire to champion the language. The university’s distinctive logo has also been refined by Rob Clarke to aid legibility and lend greater consistency to the letterforms.

In partnership with in-house teams, the new identity is being applied across campus, colleges, support services and in targeted campaigns. We look forward to seeing how the new brand plays out in the coming months and years.