Branding, LOGO DESIGN, COPYWRITING
The Cardinal Reserve: Historic Branding & Custom Map Design
Project Overview: A Brand Rooted in Mid-Century Heritage
Located at 700 Frederica Street in Owensboro, Kentucky, The Cardinal Reserve is a newly transformed luxury short-term rental, retail, and restaurant destination. Originally built in 1958, the building has long been a cornerstone of downtown Owensboro. Now, it’s been reimagined as a vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and upscale lodging.
The client, CR Contracting, needed a brand identity that honored the building’s mid-century roots while appealing to modern visitors and investors. From the hand-drawn logo to the custom-designed map, every element was created to reflect the sophistication and timeless appeal of The Cardinal Reserve.
Categories
Branding
Logo Design
Copywriting
Branding Process: From Concept to a Timeless Identity
Hand-Drawn Logo Inspired by Mid-Century Elegance
To capture the building’s character, we developed three unique logo concepts, each exploring different aspects of its history and architectural influence. The final choice? A hand-drawn cardinal, a nod to both Kentucky’s state bird and the refined style of the late 1950s. This custom illustration blends nostalgia with a modern aesthetic, giving The Cardinal Reserve a distinctive, high-end identity.
Logo Variations for Versatility
A strong brand needs flexibility. I created a full suite of logo variations, including:
- Primary and secondary logos
- Dark and light versions for different backgrounds
- A brand icon for social media, signage, and marketing materials
Branded Pattern for a Cohesive Identity
To reinforce the brand, I designed a custom pattern that ties into the logo’s aesthetic. This pattern can be used across packaging, signage, and marketing materials, creating a polished and consistent look.
Final Deliverables & Project Impact
This project resulted in a comprehensive brand identity and marketing asset package, including:
- Hand-drawn logo and full brand suite
- Custom-branded pattern for cohesive branding
- Brand guide sheet for consistent implementation
- Custom downtown amenities map with strategic copywriting
The final brand captures the elegance, mid-century charm, and sophistication of The Cardinal Reserve, making it a standout destination in Owensboro’s revitalized downtown.
Custom Downtown Map: Showcasing Prime Location & Amenities
Designed to Attract Retailers & Investors
Beyond branding, I designed a detailed, visually engaging map that highlights the many downtown amenities within walking distance of The Cardinal Reserve. This map was a key marketing piece intended to:
- Showcase nearby retail, dining, entertainment, and employment hubs
- Position The Cardinal Reserve as a prime retail and investment opportunity
- Help potential tenants visualize the foot traffic and economic potential
In addition to designing the map, we also wrote the content to ensure a compelling and strategic message. The copy highlights the property’s unbeatable location, making a strong case for why The Cardinal Reserve is the perfect spot for businesses looking to thrive in downtown Owensboro.
This custom map was featured in a mailer sent to potential retailers and investors, making it easy for them to see the potential of setting up shop at The Cardinal Reserve.
Looking for Branding That Tells a Story?
Your brand should be as unique as your business. Whether you need a logo, custom graphics, or a full brand identity, I specialize in crafting designs that connect with your audience and elevate your presence.
Let’s create something extraordinary together. Contact me today!