Logo Design Before and After
As a graphic designer and a branding agency owner, I have either overseen or completed a logo redesign a few times in my life. While some folks think that a logo is the face of your brand, I see it as a piece of it. It is an important element but your overall brand does not lay down on the logo. However, having a dated logo can make your business feel tired and forgotten, which is where a well-thought-out logo redesign can make all the difference. So, we’ll explore the ins and outs of logo redesign, showcasing before and after examples to illustrate how a good logo redesign can rejuvenate a brand. We’ll also take a look at some famous logo redesigns, highlighting what worked and what didn’t.
Why Redesign Your Logo?
Chances are if you are considering a logo redesign, you have been considering it for a while. Maybe you have outgrown your DIY logo from 5 years ago and are ready to hire a professional or maybe you have a different perspective for your own logo professionally done or not. Here are some reasons why you should consider redesigning yours:
Outdated Design: Design trends evolve, and what looked modern and fresh a decade ago might now feel dated. If your logo looks like a relic from a bygone era, it might be time for a refresh.
Company Evolution: As companies grow and evolve, their goals, values, and target audiences can shift. A logo that once perfectly represented your brand might no longer align with your company’s current identity.
Rebranding: This is a big one for us at KHD, and we often see folks doing this. If your company is undergoing a rebranding effort, a logo redesign is often a part of that. This can help signal to your audience that significant changes are happening within your brand.
Maybe Not the Best Initial Design: I often recommend if you are a new industry startup to DIY your branding which includes your logo, in fact I teach a course on this. A basic logo design is good to get your feet off the ground but with your growth you may want something more in-depth than what skills or tools you had at the time offered.
Logo Before and After Redesign Examples
Some famous logo redesigns have become case studies in branding. Here’s a look at a few well-known brands that have undergone logo changes, and what you can learn from them.
Apple
Before: Apple’s original logo, designed in 1976, depicted Isaac Newton sitting under an apple tree. While interesting, it was overly complex and not scalable.
After: The introduction of the iconic bitten apple in 1977 marked a significant change. The simplicity of the new logo, combined with its clever design, made it timeless and versatile. Today, it’s one of the most recognizable logos in the world, proving that a good logo redesign can become iconic. It also was a study in design for the user vs. for the viewer. Basically the well-known bitten apple used to point toward the user of the laptops when it was closed, however that made it upside down when the laptop was in use. So, the concept of the user is technically already in the brand, the person at that point who needs to see the logo is the viewer.
Starbucks
Before: Starbucks’ original logo featured a detailed, twin-tailed mermaid (or siren) inside a circular band with the brand name. This design was busy and somewhat outdated.
After: The most recent redesign simplified the logo by focusing solely on the siren and removing the brand name entirely. This bold move paid off, as the logo is now cleaner and more modern, yet still unmistakably Starbucks. This design was a smart move in calculating who their primary audience was, they realized they had a customer base who wanted simplicity, and being ‘in the know’ while still being able to showcase where they go for their coffee.
Coca-Cola
Before: Coca-Cola has largely kept its logo consistent over the years, with minor tweaks. The classic script logo has become a symbol of continuity and tradition.
After: While the logo itself hasn’t changed much, Coca-Cola has experimented with various design elements, such as introducing the “Dynamic Ribbon” in the 1960s. These changes have been subtle but effective, enhancing the brand without losing its heritage. Maintaining their old (but well-done) design has allowed them to push their barriers on what they’re logo can do, whether it is to make it apply to the Olympic Games or Christmas time. Another example of this application is Google.
KHD Logo Before and After Redesign Examples
Here’s a look at a few of our clients’ brands that have undergone logo changes:
Before: Morton’s first logo depicted a hollow pyramid design in a bright green that didn’t truly give the messaging of who Micheal Morton is and who his business is.
After: The new logo gives the all encompassing help that Morton Financial will offer. to his clients. The emblem is enough to be a stand alone logo that people will still connect with Morton.
Before: This logo is an aged design, evident by the 2000’s Microsoft vibe. It is also very busy with all the writing. Ideally a logo will fit most places it is needed to be placed.
After: The new logo showcases who the inspiration of the Northern Lights, while also minimizing into a logo that messages that you are dealing with a financial firm that is focused on the client.
Before: Azimuth’s before logo is something that doesn’t give off the luxurious, minimalist tone, she desired. It is a logo that got lost a little in the field of logos because it doesn’t stand out.
After: The new logo is luxury and wealth in it’s simple form. This is a logo that messages that Azimuth will guide you to wealth.
A logo redesign requires careful consideration and expert execution. Whether you’re dealing with an outdated design, evolving brand identity, or just need a refresh, a good logo redesign can breathe new life into your brand and make it more relevant to today’s audience. If you’re considering it, take the time to evaluate what’s working, what’s not, and how you can improve your logo to better reflect your brand’s identity and goals. And of course, if you need expert guidance along the way, I am here to help!
