When Carol Gilmore called late last year to say that we landed Hope Engineering’s rebranding project, it was a great honor but also a big relief. We’d been working very closely with them on e-marketing for several years, but we were up against several other talented agencies. To win the work, we produced a video that highlighted Hope’s longevity and great reputation, and showed results on how our branding projects have helped other businesses and their growth.
The project began with our Brand Equity Value (BEV™) surveys which were completed by Carol and the two principals, Chuck Hope and Jim Amundson. There were a number of key ideas that sprang from their answers; one being how vital their values and mission run through all aspects of the firm’s culture. The client wanted these ideals to be front and center in all that we did creatively.
Looking Ahead
With the company moving into a new phase, Hope Engineering wanted to acknowledge Jim’s ongoing leadership while planning for the firm’s future growth. The result: Hope-Amundson.
Because the HOPE brand had years of recognition, we built upon this equity and customized the logo typography for AMUNDSON to complement the HOPE name. We were insistent that the firm would benefit from a “mark” to bring more value and recognition to the new identity: Hope-Amundson Structural Engineers.
“2013 is our 20th anniversary,” said Chuck. “We wanted a dynamic, representative new brand image that appeals to our industry. Studio 2055‘s creative, strategic and digital talent is exactly what we needed to successfully rebrand ourselves and pave the way for future growth. We are extremely pleased with their work and for the future of Hope-Amundson.”
The Scope of the Work
The rebranding project comprised of the design of a new logo, corporate communications materials, website and interior signage. The website features a robust custom content management system (CMS) that enables the staff to keep the online content fresh with updated project profiles and blog entries. The website showcases the voice of their brand through compelling photos of their profiled projects as well as images that demonstrate the atmosphere and dynamics of their team in the downtown San Diego office.
Photographer Tim Mantoani and I spent the day with their staff. He captured the essense of individual personalities and the great team spirit that permeates throughout their offices. The photographic images anchor the website and reflect the branding of the firm’s core values: client satisfaction, integrity, community, ingenuity and teamwork.
“Studio 2055 is a company that’s squarely focused on the client; a belief that is the cornerstone of Hope-Amundson,” said Jim. “Every discussion and decision from the Studio was done with our mission in mind. We’re thrilled that the new website and branding elevates the position of the firm within the building industry. We look forward to working with Nanette in taking our company to the next level.”
Our thanks to Chuck and Jim for your kind words. We enjoy working with the Hope-Amundson team and value the relationship.
####
About Hope-Amundson
Hope-Amundson is San Diego’s leading structural engineering company. Their mission is to build strong relationships and provide cost-effective structural solutions. Building on over 80 years of family history, Hope-Amundson services include new building design, renovations and design/build delivery. Specialities include commercial, education, government, healthcare, mixed-use, life science, parking structures and zoological facilities.
