Our Process
How We Work
At studiospolu, we work both with new brands starting from scratch and with those that need a transformation of their existing identity. We design a new visual identity or a careful adjustment of what you already have — always depending on the brand's specific situation. We don't sell packages. Every solution is custom: sometimes a small refinement is enough, other times a fundamental change is needed.
New Visual Identity
A new identity is created when a brand is starting from zero — it has no established visual language, tone of communication, or clearly defined character.
In such a case, our first task is to understand what the brand represents: why it exists, who it's meant to serve, what problem it solves, and what feeling it should evoke. Only on that basis do we design its visual form.
A new identity is a system that gives the brand both a face and a structure: typography, colors, rhythm, use of space, tone of communication, and how the brand behaves in different situations. It's not just an aesthetic choice.
We create solutions that are clear, functional, and sustainable in the long run — ones that allow the brand to start out right, with a clear direction, a solid visual system, and an identity that can keep evolving.
For a completely new identity, the discovery phase is the most important. Before we start drawing, we need to find out what it's about, what matters to you, and how the brand should come across. This is what results in an identity that isn't arbitrary, but precisely matches its purpose.

Working with an Existing Identity
If a brand already exists, but its visual form no longer matches who it is today, one of the types of transformation comes into play: refresh, redesign, or rebrand. The scope of the intervention always depends on what's working, what needs to be strengthened, and what needs to change. Our task is to find a solution that's proportionate — one that respects the brand's character while still moving it to where it needs to be.
Refresh — a subtle refinement
A refresh means the logo and core visual elements stay unchanged, and only the details are adjusted. It's used when the foundation is good and just needs tidying up.
Includes:
- minor logo adjustments
- fine-tuning of colors and typography
- unifying visual communication across all outputs
Result:
the brand looks the same — just better.
Redesign — a moderate scope of change
A redesign means reworking the visual style and logo while preserving the brand's essence. It's used when the brand stays the same, but its visuals need new life — they're outdated or don't work in today's media.
We often work with an existing logo, reinterpreting it and rebuilding it into a functional system.
Includes:
- reworking the logo
- colors, typography, graphic principles
- visual style across media
Result: the brand says the same thing, just in a different language.
Rebranding — a fundamental transformation
A rebrand means redefining the brand — its position, tone of communication, and visual system. It's used when the brand's direction, ambitions, or context are changing. It's not just about a new look.
Includes:
- strategy and positioning
- tone of communication and language
- a complete visual identity
Result: it's not just about appearance, but about meaning.
Overview: which type of transformation you need
| Level | What changes | When it's used | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refresh | details, typography, colors, consistency | the foundation works, but it's inconsistent | cleaner, more unified look |
| Redesign | visual style, logo, typography, applications | the visuals are outdated or don't work in today's media | a more contemporary, professional look |
| Rebranding | strategy, positioning, language, complete identity | a fundamental change in the brand's direction or context | a new direction + a new visual system |
Not sure how big a change your brand needs? Get in touch.
We'll work through it together.
Working With You
Getting to Know You
Every collaboration begins with a conversation.
Usually in person, sometimes online. We want to know who you are, what you do, and why you do it the way you do. We talk about where the brand is now, what it needs, and where it's heading. We try to understand how you think about your brand — your customers, your context, and the world you operate in. Sometimes you arrive with a clear vision; sometimes you're still searching for it. Either way, we listen, and together we clarify the next steps, the scope of the collaboration, and the timeline.
This step is not a formality — it's the beginning of a relationship. Trust, openness and understanding are the foundations on which the entire process is built.
Finding the Essence — Strategy & Direction
Before a brand gets a face, it needs to know itself.
In this phase, we listen, ask questions and search for the brand's core. We explore its essence, values, character and what it should leave people with. We look for the language it speaks and the tone it carries. Sometimes a brand already has a clearly defined strategy; sometimes we discover it together. We help articulate why the brand exists, who it speaks to, and what makes it unique. Depending on the scope of the project, this may take the form of a conversation, a consultation or a strategic workshop. From these layers, a direction and concept emerge — the foundation on which all subsequent design is built.
Direction gives a brand confidence and the design a solid footing.
Creating the Visual Identity
Once a brand has found its essence, its shape can begin to take form.
Drawing on the strategy, we translate ideas into visual language — into lines, rhythm, colour, type and structure. We design the logo, typography, colour palette and a system of applications for both print and digital environments. For us, design is not decoration — it's a means of communication. We look for a form that matches the content, has depth and stands the test of time. We work with restraint and a sensitivity to detail. Every stroke, proportion and letterform has its purpose. Where needed, we collaborate with illustrators, photographers and typographers who bring an additional layer of character to the project.
A visual identity should be just as clear today as it is in years to come.
Bringing the Brand to Life in Space
A brand doesn't live on a screen or in a manual alone.
It comes to life the moment people actually touch it — in spaces, in materials, in the objects they hold in their hands. Where it makes sense, we extend the visual identity into the physical world. We design the brand's visual presence in space and on products: packaging, objects, signage, wallpapers and decorative elements. Smaller spatial and product applications we handle ourselves, with close attention to detail, material and visual consistency. For more complex solutions, we work with a trusted interior designer and a network of suppliers who manage the process from concept through to completion.
Here, identity becomes an experience.
Production & Implementation
A good design needs quality execution.
We prepare files for print, production and digital implementation. We recommend trusted suppliers or oversee the process and quality of production. We keep a close eye on the details, making sure the final result stays true to the original intent and the brand's visual language.
For us, the work doesn't end when the files are handed over.
Long-term Care
Most brands stay with us for the long haul.
We help them maintain consistency, develop new applications and evolve their visual language over time. We respond to new situations, formats and needs — without the brand losing its identity. The collaboration can continue through consultations, ongoing design work or long-term management of the visual identity.
Brands don't grow all at once. They grow gradually.
Collaboration process
Getting to know each other

Every collaboration begins with a conversation.
Mostly in person, sometimes online. We are interested in who you are, what you do and why you do it the way you do. We talk about the stage your brand is in, what it needs and where it should go. We try to understand how you think about your brand — about customers, the context and the world in which you operate. Sometimes you come with a clear vision, other times you are just searching for it. In both cases, we listen and together we clarify the next steps, the scope of cooperation and the timeframe.
This step is not a formality, but the beginning of a relationship. We build the entire process on trust, openness and understanding.
We help brands grow, find their footing, and give visual form to their values.
We help brands grow, find their way, and visually embody their values.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
What can we help you with?
We are a design studio based in Pardubice and Prague. We most often work on visual identities for brands, projects and products, brand refresh and redesign, websites and company presentations, and integrating a brand into interiors and spaces. Also books and publications, print materials and packaging design. The scope of each project always reflects the specific situation and needs. We don't work on individual outputs in isolation — we focus on how they work together.
Looking for a designer just for a logo or a website?
Maybe you're looking for just a logo or just a website. That's fine. But a logo is always just part of a larger whole. We design brands as systems — from the core idea and tone of voice to visual style and its real-world application. We'll help you understand when a standalone logo makes sense — and when it's better to start with a full visual identity.
Who is Studio Spolu the right fit for?
For companies, non-profits, entrepreneurs and projects in Prague, Pardubice and across the Czech Republic who are looking for meaningful, long-term design and want to be part of the process. We don't do quick graphic work without context.
How does the collaboration work?
We begin with an initial consultation to clarify goals, scope and direction. This is followed by concept development, refinement and delivery. The process is structured, but open to dialogue — design is created collaboratively.
How much does branding or a visual identity cost?
The cost of branding or a visual identity depends on scope, complexity and time. Every project is different — we always prepare a tailored offer. If you have a set budget in mind, feel free to mention it in the contact form.
How long does a project take?
Smaller projects take a few weeks; complex brands and websites tend to take several months. We always clarify the timeline at the outset — quality takes time. And it's best to start as early as possible.
How many design concepts will we receive?
We work with considered concepts rather than a large number of options. We typically present 1–2 strong directions, which we then develop together.
Can we be involved in the design process?
Absolutely. We count on your feedback and open dialogue. The best results come when the client is not just a brief-giver, but a genuine partner.
Do you work with smaller brands?
Yes, if the project makes sense and we share the same expectations. The size of the brand is not the deciding factor — what matters is the vision and the desire to do things well.
Do you handle print, production or on-site supervision?
Yes. We have experience with print, materials and production oversight. For projects that extend into space or interior design, we can also provide authorial supervision.
What will you need from us at the start?
Openness, time and a willingness to think. A basic idea of the project's goals, timeline and budget is also helpful — we'll work out the rest together.
How do I know my brand needs a rebrand?
A rebrand makes sense when your brand's direction, target audience, or ambitions are changing. If your visual identity doesn't feel consistent, no longer reflects who you are today, or is holding back your communication, Studio Spolu recommends a deeper transformation — not just of the look, but of the brand's positioning and language.
How does the visual identity creation process work, step by step?
At Studio Spolu, we start by understanding the brand — its purpose, context, and target audience. Next comes concept design, the visual system, and its applications. The process ends with delivering clear guidelines and a brand manual, so the identity works long-term and across all media. More in the Collaboration Process section.
When does it make sense to redesign a visual style or logo?
A redesign is appropriate when the foundation of the brand still holds, but the visuals feel outdated, don't work in today's media, or are losing legibility. The goal is a more contemporary, professional look that respects the brand's original character. More in the Types of Transformation section.
What should I do if my visual identity doesn't work across different media?
The most common issue is a lack of consistency or a clear system. At Studio Spolu, we help refine typography, colors, element hierarchy, and how visual motifs are used. Sometimes a refresh is enough, other times a redesign is needed — depending on the scope of the problem.
What is Brand Care and why do companies need it?
Brand Care is long-term brand care — regular adjustments, consistency across outputs, oversight of the visual style, and support for new materials. It helps maintain quality, cohesion, and a professional look without the need for major interventions.
How do I choose a studio for a website or visual identity redesign?
It's important that the studio understands the brand's context, can explain its process, and has experience with similar projects. Looking at references, their way of working, and whether they can design solutions that are functional — not just aesthetic — all helps.
