Founded in 1913, RKD is a leading international architecture practice, trusted by global organisations to deliver complex, design-led projects across multiple sectors and disciplines.


After a strategic review, they appointed CI Studio to reposition the practice and to bring a new dynamism to the brand identity and messaging in the context of an AI and digitally focused world.

The visual identity builds on the idea that architecture changes depending on the viewer's perspective. This informed the existing distinctive and responsive word mark that adapts to different spaces, scales and applications. Light is also a critical element in architecture which shapes our perception of space, affects mood, and serves functional purposes. The RKD palette brings this sensibility to life, with gradients that evoke movement, depth, and the delicate interplay of light across surfaces.




Working collaboratively with the senior leadership within RKD, we simplified its brand architecture, clarified its positioning and developed a refreshed brand identity, communications system and messaging hierarchy, capable of supporting its international ambitions and attracting talent.

We conducted a carefully directed photo and video shoot across all of their European locations, capturing the RKD people naturally in their light-filled work spaces and on-site within some of their ongoing project spaces, conveying the RKD way of working in a very human and compelling way.

A consistent tone of voice is an important aspect of any brand that speaks across multiple languages and platforms. We developed a comprehensive set of visual and verbal guidelines which stay true to the RKD culture and personality while helping to build familiarity and recognition as the firm expands internationally.

As part of the project, we also designed a suite of templates for all types of social media communications, ensuring that a scrupulous attention to detail is always evident.

CI Studio designed a coherent and contemporary expression across every client and stakeholder touchpoint, enhancing visibility within AI based programmes and platforms.


The result is a confident, sophisticated identity that unifies a complex professional practice while respecting more than a century of heritage. It provides RKD with a clear and distinctive market position and a flexible brand platform designed to support its expanding global reach.