Bronze Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design · 2023
Taichung Public Library Brand Identity
by Yichun Lin
- A' Design Award 2023 Bronze Winner in Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design
- Awarded April 15, 2023
- CLIENT: Yichun Lin Design
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 12,115
- Verification code 5C92B2D420 · Verify this award
About Taichung Public Library Brand Identity
As the first building in Taiwan to combine an art museum and a library, the creation of the branding system of Taichung Public Library focus on the fusion of nature and civilization. The design philosophy emphasizes the seamless integration of modern architecture with natural elements and aims to evoke a sense of freshness and inquisitiveness. The branding system fosters an atmosphere that encourages visitors to delve into the diverse cultural experiences the Library offers and enjoy the balance between contemporary civilization and the tranquility of the forest.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The designer uses graphics in blocks as the primary design element, incorporating books and the Chinese character "Chung", and aligning with the building's square design. The Logo's undulating pattern suggests flexibility, like diving into an ocean of books. Green represents nature and growth, fitting with the Library's mission. Meanwhile, the black block provides visual contrast and suggests stability and authority, reflecting the Library's role as a reliable source of knowledge.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Minimum size of logo: 35mm x 6.5mm
- Tags
- Visual Identity, Logo, Branding, Graphics, Printed Matter
- Production Technology
- All the graphics were created and designed with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
- Design Challenge
- As the Library's anticipated opening is still several years away in 2025, the designer faces the challenge of limited information to inform the design process. This lack of data poses significant difficulties and requires the designer to think creatively and imaginatively to craft a design that accurately captures the essence and identity of the Library. Additionally, the designer must remain adaptable to any changes that may arise in the intervening years, ensuring that the final design remains relevant and effective upon the Library's opening.
- Project Duration
- December 2020 to January 2021, Taiwan
- Operation Flow
- The wordmark can be customized and used as exterior signage, depending on the branch name. The Logo can be applied to the library merchandise. With the extension of the graphic units and color palette, identification can be present on various products and official documents with the system.
- Research
- The black block is strategically placed on the upper side of the Logo, where the Library's position is relative to the park. The Chinese wordmark is set in Noto Sans, while the English wordmark uses Avenir. To ensure visual consistency and alignment with the Logo, the designer modified the proportion and details of the wordmark. The block-shaped graphic element is carefully integrated with the library building's square design, emphasizing the relationship between the brand and its physical space.
- Inspiration
- The design was inspired by the concept of "Library in the Park, Art Museum in the Forest". The brand system focuses on the fusion of "nature" and "civilization". The Logo draws inspiration from books and the Chinese character "Chung" from Taichung. The architectural appearance was also a source of inspiration, with the Library standing tall amidst the forest, blending natural and cultural elements. It allows one to experience the influence of modern civilization while being surrounded by the pristine nature of the woods.
- Image Credits
- Photographer Keith Camiller, 2017
Photographer Ryunosuke Kikuno, 2020
Photographer Gabriel Sollmann, 2018
Photographer Aarón Blanco Tejedor, 2017
Colors of Taichung Public Library Brand Identity
Design Interview about Taichung Public Library Brand Identity
The main principle of my design is the fusion of nature and civilization. The concept was inspired by the idea of a "Library in the Park, Art Museum in the Forest," where the brand identity reflects the harmonious blend of modern architecture and the surrounding natural environment. The inspiration stems from the architectural form of the building and its connection to nature, symbolizing knowledge amidst tranquility.
My main focus was to create a design that is both modern and rooted in its environment. I wanted to achieve a visual identity that reflects the dual nature of the library as a place for knowledge and artistic expression. I aimed to ensure that the branding would remain timeless and flexible enough to adapt to future changes while staying true to the library's core mission.
For this award-winning design, I plan to continue developing the brand identity across various applications as the library project progresses. The design will be adapted for signage, merchandise, and further communications once the library opens in 2025. My goal is to ensure that the identity remains strong and relevant as it evolves with the library’s physical space and its community.
The design process for the Taichung Public Library Brand Identity took approximately 3 months, from December 2020 to January 2021. This timeline involved conceptualization, refinement, and adjustments to ensure the design was both visually compelling and flexible for future applications.
This design was commissioned for the Taichung Public Library project, but I chose to pursue an inspiration that reflected the library's unique position in the city as both a repository of knowledge and a cultural space. I aimed to create an identity that captured both the library’s purpose and its connection to nature and modernity.
The design is currently being used by the Taichung Public Library, and it will be applied to signage, marketing materials, and merchandise as part of the library’s opening in 2025. I do not plan to lease or sell the rights; instead, I will continue to work on the brand's ongoing development and its implementation as the library project progresses.
The opportunity to create a brand identity for a public institution like the Taichung Public Library, which combines both knowledge and art, inspired me. I wanted to create a design that would serve both as a functional tool for the library’s identity and as a visual representation of its mission and values.
I was inspired by modern architectural designs, especially those that blend natural and man-made elements seamlessly. Additionally, my favorite designer, Satou Kashiwa, has greatly influenced my approach to simplicity and meaningful design. His ability to convey complex ideas through minimalistic forms was a key influence in my design process.
The target audience for this design is the local community and visitors of Taichung. The library and art museum's unique combination means the design must appeal to a diverse group, from scholars and students to families and art enthusiasts. It also aims to create an inviting and professional atmosphere for all visitors.
This design stands apart due to its thoughtful integration of nature and modernity, using the architectural elements of the building as a foundation. The undulating pattern in the logo adds a dynamic layer to an otherwise structured form, and the use of local culture through the Chinese character “Chung” gives it a unique cultural dimension that resonates with the community.
The name for the design, “Taichung Public Library Brand Identity,” was directly derived from the project's purpose. It represents the visual identity for the new public library and its role as a hub for knowledge and culture in Taichung. The name is straightforward, yet it encapsulates the essence of the space — an open, accessible environment for the community to engage with both knowledge and art.
I used a combination of traditional sketching and digital design tools. For digital work, I primarily used Adobe Illustrator for vector-based logo creation, Photoshop for mockups, and InDesign for layout and presentation. I also employed Procreate for hand-drawn elements to add a more organic feel.
The most unique aspect is the fusion of natural and architectural elements, particularly the fluid pattern within the logo that contrasts with the otherwise structured geometric design. It represents both the calmness of nature and the dynamic energy of a space dedicated to knowledge and art. Additionally, incorporating the Chinese character “Chung” adds a layer of cultural depth to the modern design.
I collaborated closely with architects and planners involved in the Taichung Public Library project. Their technical expertise helped ensure that the visual identity aligned with the building’s architectural concepts and the space's function. I also worked with a team of graphic designers to ensure the brand system’s consistency and flexibility across different applications.
Technology played a key role in both the design process and the implementation of the brand identity. Digital tools such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop allowed me to iterate quickly and explore different concepts, while also helping to create accurate mockups and prototypes. Additionally, technology will play a significant role in the eventual application of the identity to signage, digital platforms, and promotional materials.
Yes, the design was influenced by research into the library’s architectural design, its location within a park, and its dual function as both a library and art museum. I studied the surrounding environment to ensure the design felt connected to its natural surroundings. Additionally, I looked into the cultural significance of the Chinese character "Chung" to integrate meaningful local references.
One of the main challenges was ensuring that the design was flexible enough to work across various applications, from large exterior signage to smaller promotional materials. Another challenge was balancing modern, geometric elements with the organic shapes inspired by nature while maintaining brand consistency. The library’s future construction also posed challenges in visualizing the space before it was built.
I decided to submit the design to an international competition because I believe in the strength of the concept and wanted to gain recognition for the innovative fusion of architecture, nature, and culture. The design also represents a unique approach to public institutions, and I thought it would be beneficial to showcase it to a wider audience.
Through this project, I learned how to balance creativity with functionality. I also improved my ability to create flexible design systems that can adapt to different contexts and applications. This project deepened my understanding of how a brand can reflect both a physical space and its cultural context, and how design can tell a meaningful story.
One thing I would like to emphasize is how the design reflects a deep respect for the local culture while still embracing a modern, global perspective. It’s a brand identity that speaks to both the community and the future. The project was a wonderful opportunity to creatively merge architecture, nature, and culture in a meaningful way.
Grand Interview about Taichung Public Library Brand Identity
The Taichung Public Library Brand Identity blends nature and civilization by reflecting both the building’s modern architecture and its connection to the surrounding park. This balance influenced my design choices, like using clean, structured lines alongside flowing, organic shapes in the logo. I wanted the visuals to represent the library’s role as a peaceful yet vibrant place where knowledge and community come together. The combination of these elements creates a brand that feels both modern and grounded in its natural environment.
The flowing pattern in the logo was inspired by the idea of diving into an ocean of books, representing the endless possibilities of knowledge. I wanted to soften the structured, blocky elements to make the design feel more dynamic and engaging. This fluid movement captures the excitement of discovery and learning while still connecting to the library’s modern, architectural style. It’s a way to visually reflect the library’s purpose as a space for exploration.
Designing for a building that isn’t open yet meant creating something timeless and adaptable. I focused on a design rooted in the library’s mission and its architectural features, ensuring it would stay relevant over the years. I also made the branding flexible enough to grow with the library, allowing it to evolve if needed. This way, the design stays meaningful even as the library itself takes shape.
The library’s location in the park directly influenced the branding. For example, the black block in the logo represents the library’s position within the park, anchoring it visually. I also used geometric fonts and layouts to reflect the building’s modern structure while adding design elements that feel open and inviting. Every detail was designed to connect the brand to the library’s physical space and purpose.
Including the Chinese character “Chung” in the logo was my way of honoring the city's name while keeping the design modern. I stylized the character to fit the geometric, block-based theme, blending tradition with contemporary design. This approach highlights Taichung’s cultural identity and positions the library as both rooted in history and forward-looking. It creates a brand that feels meaningful to the local community but also appealing globally.
To ensure the branding worked in all contexts, I created a flexible design system with core elements like the logo, color palette, and patterns. These elements adapt easily across different applications, like signage and merchandise, while still feeling connected. For example, the corner cuts from the logo were used as a recurring theme. This approach keeps everything recognizable and consistent no matter where it’s used.
I chose green and black for the color palette to represent nature and authority. Green reflects growth, calmness, and the library’s connection to the park, while black adds a sense of professionalism and trust. Together, these colors create a brand that feels approachable yet serious. It visually represents the library’s role as both a cultural and natural space.
The block shapes in the branding were inspired by the library’s square architectural design. These shapes mirror the building’s structure, creating a strong connection between the brand and the physical space. At the same time, the arrangement of the blocks suggests movement and interaction, reflecting the dynamic nature of learning. This approach ties the branding closely to the library’s identity.
The library’s dual purpose as both a library and art museum influenced the branding by combining quiet learning with creative energy. The flowing logo reflects this balance, symbolizing both the flow of knowledge and artistic inspiration. I wanted the branding to feel structured yet open to interpretation, just like the space itself. This duality captures the library’s unique role as a place for both study and creativity.
Winning the Bronze A'Design Award was a great honor because it recognized how the project balanced creativity and functionality. The branding connects with users through thoughtful choices, like the meaningful use of colors and the connection to the building’s architecture. Every design detail serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose, creating a brand that’s beautiful and useful. This combination of imagination and practicality makes the identity stand out.