Located just north of Columbus, the City of Delaware is a thriving community of 38,000 residents, home to Ohio Wesleyan University, a strong industrial base, and a vibrant downtown. As the city continued to grow, leadership recognized the need for a stronger identity and improved wayfinding to enhance navigation and economic vitality.
Initially, Delaware sought our expertise to develop a citywide wayfinding system. However, early discussions revealed that a well-defined brand was essential to effectively communicate the city’s assets and attract residents, businesses, and visitors. Through stakeholder engagement, we developed a brand rooted in “Modern Americana”, highlighting Delaware’s historic charm, community pride, and quality amenities. The identity includes a bold new logo and “Tradition Badges” that celebrate key aspects of the city, such as its historic downtown, Ohio Wesleyan, and the annual Little Brown Jug horse race.
With the brand in place, we expanded our work to implement a signage and wayfinding program that reflects Delaware’s identity and improves navigation. This included:
- Downtown Wayfinding to make experiencing the district comfortable and easy.
- Citywide Signage Standards to ensure consistency across municipal facilities.
- Parks & Trails Signage to align recreational spaces with the city’s brand.
- Business & Industrial District Wayfinding to enhance connectivity and visibility.
Delaware’s new brand and wayfinding program work together to reinforce its identity, creating a welcoming and well-connected experience. Our ongoing partnership continues to help the city strengthen its image and navigate future growth with clarity and confidence.
