The Dolphin
The Challenge
The iconic Dolphin Hotel in the heart of Southampton was being reimagined as state of the art boutique student accommodation. The brand needed to respect the heritage of the building while feeling relevant, desirable, and contemporary for a new generation of students.
The Wonderment
We created an identity rooted in the building’s story, taking inspiration from the simple, iconic dolphin motif found inside. This was paired with a modern serif typeface to balance tradition with freshness. The logo system was designed to rotate and adapt, allowing descriptors to sit within it for wayfinding and signage, creating a flexible brand that works beautifully in physical space.
The Result
A refined, characterful brand that bridges past and present with confidence. The Dolphin now feels elevated, distinctive, and perfectly placed for modern student life, honouring its heritage while speaking fluently to today’s tastes.
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