Channel 4 has unveiled a significant rebrand, with the aim of creating a more cohesive and clear brand identity across all platforms. The new identity puts the focus back to its roots with a redrawn version of the original Lambie-Nairn logo while expanding Neville Brody’s font family and introducing a brand ‘universe’ built on gradients.
A Return Back to Roots
After eight years of the logo being broken down into broken blocks, Channel 4 is returning to the original Lambie-Nairn logo as a visual anchor. The logo takes center stage once again, unifying 4’s streaming service and a slew of sub-brands. The new masterbrand color is a vibrant green, and Neville Brody’s font family has been expanded to include variable condensed and extended styles.
A Collaborative Effort by Industry Powerhouses
4creative, alongside Hudson-Powell, has joined forces with Pentagram to spearhead the Channel 4 rebrand. This ambitious project has assembled a lineup of top-notch creatives, including Found, Siren, Factory, Stink Studios, NaN, Art Practice, and Time-Based Arts. Each contributor brings their expertise to various aspects of the rebrand, resulting in a comprehensive and captivating visual experience.
Embracing Change in a Shifting Broadcast Landscape
With the ever-evolving broadcasting landscape, Channel 4’s rebrand focuses on adaptability and success across multiple platforms. The new identity introduces several key changes, such as a vibrant green masterbrand color and the expansion of Neville Brody’s font family. Most notably, the reintroduction of the Lambie-Nairn motion brings the iconic logo to the forefront, symbolizing a return to Channel 4’s roots while embracing a transformed visual language.
Creating an Altogether Different Universe
At the heart of the rebrand lies the concept of an immersive universe through which the iconic 4 mark traverses. Referred to as “Altogether Different,” this space embodies Channel 4’s fearless and mischievous brand heritage. Constructed using a cube-based framework and an array of captivating gradients, this system serves as a canvas for programming menus and narrative idents. The dynamic motion showcases the brand’s content and injects a sense of excitement into viewers’ experience.
Integrating the ‘4mojis’
The rebrand also introduces the integration of “4mojis” within the brand typeface. These unique icons serve as a unified language that transcends digital applications, such as the player and office signage. The “4mojis” strike a balance between functionality and playfulness, encapsulating the essence of Channel 4’s rebellious and creative spirit.
A Cohesive Vision for the Future
The masterbrand system created through this rebrand provides both cohesion and clarity across Channel 4’s diverse channels and platforms. It embraces the brand’s inherent duality, allowing for expression while maintaining a unified visual language. This principles-based system serves as a guide for present and future outputs, equipping Channel 4 to navigate the evolving landscape of television and entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Channel 4’s collaboration with Pentagram, 4creative, and a host of talented creatives has ushered in a significant rebranding effort. By restoring the Lambie-Nairn logo, introducing a vibrant brand universe, and fostering a principles-based system, Channel 4 is poised for a new era of creativity and adaptability. This transformation not only unifies its streaming service and sub-brands but also positions Channel 4 as a trailblazer in the ever-changing landscape of broadcasting.
