We provide end-to-end solutions: from initial consultation through to delivering the finished product. We can help you every step of the way…

A step-by-step guide to designing a logo
Our first stage is to create a mind map – a map of associated words and phrases that allow us to generate ideas in a number of different but linked directions. From here we resort to the good old sketch pad. Drawing freehand allows us to generate ideas quickly and efficiently without the hindrance of the computer.

Stage 1 – Initial sketches
The next stage is to choose a selection of suitable fonts from our extensive font library and then to generate and develop our sketched ideas on computer using a number of different programs. As the ideas take shape it’s very important to keep referring back to our original thoughts and to keep a focus on the different directions that have been decided in stage 1.

Stage 2 – Fonts and development of key ideas
Next comes the hard part! Catalyst usually generate three clear and distinct approaches to show to the client. These have been developed and refined from the ideas generated in the previous stage – all the time testing for clarity and direction and checking against our original ‘pure’ ideas. In this case the client had already suggested the idea of a “lime in a wetsuit”, so this was developed as one of the ideas. The designs are then presented to the client as printed visuals. In this case, after the initial presentation, the client asked to see the second idea in a different colourway. However once they had seen it they settled on our original design and the work was signed off ready for final artwork and production of the logo system.

Stage 3 – Focus, refinement and testing
Once the design has been agreed Catalyst then go back to scratch and re-generate the logo taking particular care to kern the characters accurately and to make sure that spacing around the logo is consistant and logical. In this case some of the original font characters were altered and adjusted to aid legibility. The ‘rebreather infinity’ icon was carefully generated in Adobe Illustrator ensuring perfect spacing of the elements and an even transition of the graduation at exactly the correct point.

Stage 4 – Artwork of chosen logo
Once the initial logo has been produced Catalyst then generate a number of alternative colourways as well as single colour and greyscale versions. These are then all supplied on CD or DVD in a wide range of formats along with a set of usage guidelines.

Stage 5 – Production of logo system


New corporate ID helps Darke see the light
- a new corporate identity which incorporates the two current divisions and the two new acquisitions into one cohesive group
- to help prospective clients easily understand the distinction between the four different company divisions
- a branding to reflect the prestigious and iconic quality of their clients and projects
- a corporate identity that works across many different applications, and appeals to a wide range of clientele including construction engineers and top architectural practices.
The new website reflects the high quality of Darke’s projects and neatly defines the four divisions of the group.


Fleet signage for Darke Group, Peterborough

Signage for Darke Group, Peterborough

Signage for Darke Group, Peterborough

Website design and production

A successful product launch for XiVA
- to establish a brand and develop cohesive and consistent launch collateral that appeals to the target market of 20 — 35 year olds.

Logotype design

Product packaging design and production

Design and production of XiVA musicm8 marketing materials

Website design and production for musicm8 media player

Supercharging a traditional marketing item
- to ensure that the DALROD name is always on view to customers
- to ensure that their contact details are easily available
- to make the DALROD name stand out head and shoulders above their competitors.

Promtional flyers for Peterborough drainage solutions company, DALROD

Promtional flyers for Peterborough drainage solutions company, DALROD