The design world has witnessed the proliferation of logos that leverage the powerful imagery of the triangle. Like the symbolic Google “Play” symbol or Fila’s striking wordmark, they have harnessed this geometric form to leave an indelible mark in the minds of their audiences.
Like colors or fonts, shapes play a pivotal role in branding, carrying specific connotations that can influence public perception. It’s an intricate dance of visual elements deliberately chosen to convey the desired message about a brand or an entity.
The square, with its balanced sides and equal angles, emanates a sense of reliability, grounding, and a firm foundation. It is often associated with brands that want to project an image of trustworthiness and consistency. On the other hand, circles embody inclusivity, wholeness, and unity. Their continuous loop is representative of communities and connections, making them a favorite for brands aiming to foster a sense of belonging.
Triangles, however, bring their unique flair to the table. They’re dynamic, evoking notions of sharpness, progress, and direction. Depending on their orientation, they can suggest upward movement, signifying growth and aspiration, or stability when they sit on a flat base. Their boldness is often associated with brands that want to stand out, make a statement, or direct focus.
The realm of logos dominated by triangles offers insights into how brands utilize this shape’s intrinsic qualities. Whether it’s to symbolize innovation, forward momentum, or a disruptive stance, the triangle has proven its versatility in the hands of designers.
What do triangle logos mean? An introduction
Triangular designs in logos have a rich history and myriad interpretations. Within the Druid and Masonic circles, the triangle was seen as a symbol of power, charisma, and masculinity. In Pagan traditions, it often represented feminine principles.
Much like other geometric shapes, triangles can encapsulate various meanings. While squares predominantly signify stability, triangles often denote a dynamic aura, suggesting innovation and action. Their intrinsic design directs the viewer’s gaze, giving designers the power to guide perception. The “Guess” logo draws the eye downwards with its downward-pointing triangle, creating a reflective stance. The directional cue in Google’s “Play” emblem, pointing to the right, indicates progress and forward momentum.
The adaptability of the triangle in design is noteworthy. When multiple triangles are amalgamated, they can form intriguing patterns, each adding a layer of depth to the logo. Based on its orientation, a standalone triangle can act as a focal point, guiding the viewer’s attention.
This geometric shape’s association with exploration, progression, and evolution makes it a preferred choice in specific sectors. Unsurprisingly, triangular motifs frequently grace logos in the tech sector, symbolizing cutting-edge innovation. Similarly, triangles’ robust and forward-leaning qualities resonate well in industries like construction and finance, projecting growth and stability. The legal sector, where precision and clarity are paramount, also finds the triangle’s sharp edges apt for representation. Not to be left behind, the world of fashion, which thrives on bold statements and avant-garde designs, often incorporates triangular patterns to signify modernity and trendsetting.
With their multifaceted interpretations and dynamic geometry, triangles remain a favorite in logo design, resonating with diverse industries and audiences.
Adidas
The emblem of Adidas, recognized globally, ingeniously employs sequential stripes that converge to craft the semblance of a triangle. This symbolic design has, over time, cemented its place as one of the foremost symbols in the world of athletic wear. This iconic imagery graces the brand’s footwear, making it instantly recognizable to enthusiasts and casual observers.
The triangular configuration of the Adidas mark draws parallels to mountain summits. This visual metaphor subtly communicates the essence of challenges, aspirations, and the relentless human spirit to surmount obstacles. It stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to inspire and empower individuals in their athletic pursuits and personal milestones.
Adobe
Adobe, a name synonymous with cutting-edge design software, enjoys a reputation that spans the globe. With a suite of products often cited as benchmarks in the industry, it’s no wonder that professionals and enthusiasts alike hold the company in high regard.
The emblem is at the core of its visual identity, punctuated by triangular elements. These geometric forms take on the semblance of the letter “A,” anchoring the brand’s identity. But there’s more to it than just an alphabetic representation. With their upward orientation, these triangles subtly evoke notions of ascension and advancement. It’s a testament to Adobe’s unwavering focus on fostering inventive thinking and promoting a culture of ceaseless ingenuity.
Airbnb
With its iconic logo, Airbnb has redefined the use of triangular motifs in branding. Instead of a rigid triangle, their symbol embraces an inverted heart shape, its edges refined with gentle curves to evoke warmth and approachability.
This uniquely molded triangle serves a dual purpose: it captures the essence of hospitality and embodies the brand’s ethos of creating a sense of belonging for its users. Nestled within the emblem is a design resembling a map pin, subtly hinting at destinations and the notion of finding one’s perfect stay. Additionally, this silhouette resembles the letter “A,” cleverly alluding to the brand’s name.
Integrating these elements in Airbnb’s logo reflects the company’s commitment to fostering connections and ensuring travelers find their ideal home away from home. The brand effectively uses its emblem to communicate its core values and resonate with its global audience.
Alcatel
The emblem of Alcatel showcases a keen sense of geometric design by including dual triangles. One of the triangles, rendered in shades of yellow and orange, is downward, leading the viewer’s gaze to the brand’s name. The letter “A” in the wordmark isn’t the typical alphabet design. A pristine white triangle represents it, harmoniously mirroring its colored counterpart.
This symmetrical arrangement exudes an aura of equilibrium and harmony, essential for a brand rooted in seamless interactions. The repetitive triangular motifs subtly underscore the essence of interconnectedness. For a firm that delves into the realm of communication apparatus, such a design cleverly resonates with the brand’s mission of facilitating effortless communication across diverse platforms and channels.
Bass
The vibrant scarlet triangle, synonymous with Bass, undoubtedly stands out to the discerning eye within the intricate realm of beer insignias. Tracing its origins back to 1777, the Bass brand has woven its narrative throughout the tapestry of time, and its persistent prominence in the contemporary market owes much to its compelling graphical representation.
In the year 1876, this very emblem carved a niche for itself in the annals of branding. It was in this year that it garnered the honor of being the first-ever trademark to gain formal recognition from British regulatory agencies. The triangular design, bathed in a deep hue of scarlet and directed skyward, is often seen as symbolic of forward-thinking and the relentless pursuit of growth.
Borgward
The Borgward Manufacturing Company, in its heyday, showcased an emblem that cleverly merged multiple triangles to form a distinct diamond pattern. This emblem, painted in shades of red and white, wasn’t merely a design but an embodiment of values. The red triangles are often associated with enthusiasm and zeal, while the white ones resonate with notions of purity and adaptability. Furthermore, the overarching diamond silhouette effectively communicates a sense of luxury and exclusivity.
While Borgward may no longer dominate the market as it once did, its meticulously crafted logo is a testament to the timeless influence and impact that triangular motifs can have in branding. Through such designs, one can glean the multifaceted nature and versatility that triangles bring to the table in visual identity.
CAT
The “CAT” emblem, a standout in the construction domain, prominently features a striking yellow triangle superimposed on its brand name. In its vivid shade, this distinctive triangle commands attention and sparks interest.
The choice of yellow is not merely for aesthetics; it conveys emotions. The hue is frequently linked with optimism, vitality, and enlightenment. It resonates with the spirit of exploration and the thrill of new ventures, encapsulating the brand’s vision of pushing boundaries and innovation.
Triangles, being elemental geometric figures, exude balance and solidity. Their presence in architectural blueprints underlines their significance in ensuring structural integrity. When a company manufacturing construction machinery adopts this shape in its logo, it conveys a message. It subtly hints at the robustness and dependability of their products, aligning with the foundational strength of the triangle itself.
Citgo
Citgo holds a distinguished position among the prominent names in the oil and gas sector. This privately held company, known for its prowess in refining, transporting, and commercializing transportation fuels, petrochemicals, and lubricants, boasts an extensive presence, especially in the United States.
The Citgo emblem, rather than being a simplistic triangular form, is a confluence of three triangles, each with a distinct hue. This amalgamation is symbolic, representing the multifaceted avenues the company ventures into and the extensive range of products it brings to the table. The design underscores the company’s diverse capabilities and expansive product offerings.
Delta Airlines
Delta, a renowned name in the air travel sector, holds a logo that stands out prominently in the aviation industry. While the brand has undergone several logo revisions, one consistent element remains the triangular motif.
This symbolic shape aligns with the company’s name – derived from the Greek letter “Delta,” which is triangular in representation – and serves a dual purpose. The arrow, oriented skyward, subtly emphasizes the company’s core mission: facilitating flight and connecting the world from the skies. The brand effectively utilizes the triangle, which conveys stability and upward momentum, to mirror its commitment to excellence and progress in aviation.
DS Automobiles
DS Automobiles, a prominent car manufacturer, boasts an emblem that may initially appear as a mere amalgamation of the letters “D” and “S,” representing the brand’s name. A deeper examination reveals intricate triangular formations within these letters.
Incorporating such geometric designs serves a dual purpose. It heightens the emblem’s visual allure by introducing a modern, edgy dimension. The triangles subtly hint at the brand’s forward-thinking and innovative ethos. Such details are not just design choices but deliberate statements about the brand’s identity and vision. DS Automobiles successfully conveys its commitment to tradition and innovation by seamlessly integrating these triangles into the brand’s initials.
Fila
The renowned Italian clothing brand Fila exemplifies the ingenuity of intertwining geometric shapes within typographic design. The distinctive design of the final “A” in their wordmark strikingly resembles a triangular shape more than a traditional letter.
Delving deeper into the brand’s history reveals the intent behind this design choice. While many perceive it merely as a stylized letter, there’s more to it than meets the eye. This triangular representation is believed to pay homage to the Alps, a significant landmark in Fila’s legacy. It’s a nod to the brand’s beginnings when it crafted attire for patrons near these majestic mountains. By infusing this subtle element into its logo, Fila stands out and pays tribute to its origins, grounding the brand in authenticity and heritage. This design decision encapsulates the brand’s deep-rooted connection with its past while signaling its modern and innovative approach to fashion.
Google Drive
The Google Drive emblem, upon a cursory glance, appears to feature a singular triangle with softened edges. A detailed observation reveals a multi-faceted design. Nested within the central part is another triangle and three smaller triangular forms are at the intersection of the distinct color lines.
These varied colors and geometric forms have a deeper significance. They symbolize the diverse tools and applications integral to the Google ecosystem. Each hue corresponds to a different tool, such as Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. The intertwining of these colors within the emblem is a testament to these tools’ seamless integration and interconnectedness, emphasizing the cohesive user experience they collectively offer. Through this logo, Google encapsulates the essence of its drive platform – a unified space for diverse functionalities.
Google Play
Google frequently incorporates triangles into its designs. Aside from the “Drive” logo, the “Google Play” insignia also showcases this shape. This emblem resembles the universal “play” icon found on various devices, such as media players, TV remote controls, and other digital platforms, akin to the YouTube mark.
The right-pointing triangle universally resonates with progression, forward movement, and dynamism concepts. In many cultures and contexts, it symbolizes pushing boundaries, forging ahead, and initiating action. Google’s adoption of this symbol underscores its commitment to innovation, continual advancement, and forward-thinking approach to technology and digital services.
Guess
Recognizable and captivating, the emblem of Guess stands as a testament to the power of innovative fashion branding. While not all products bear the triangle symbol, their presence is undeniable in many of the company’s attire collections and promotional endeavors.
This logo’s vivid hue and distinct form echo sentiments of vigor and enthusiasm. This triangular motif, intriguingly pointing downward, deviates from the conventional upward-facing designs, signifying a unique blend of inventiveness and distinctiveness. Such a direction is not just an aesthetic choice but also a statement that resonates with those who value differentiation and individuality in design.
The question mark, possessing its triangular touch, further emphasizes the brand’s penchant for blending curiosity with style, encapsulating a sense of mystery and allure synonymous with high fashion.
HGTV
As an acronym representing “Home & Garden Television,” HGTV is a renowned television network under the ownership umbrella of both the Warner Company and Discovery. Targeting an audience that loves home improvement and real estate, the channel offers plenty of content dedicated to these topics.
In HGTV’s visual presentation, the triangular motif is not just a random geometric inclusion. This shape above the brand’s lettering follows the silhouette of the house’s roof. Beyond its architectural implications, the upward direction of the triangle in the design is suggestive. It subtly communicates notions of advancement, evolution, and the limitless horizons of opportunities in the realm of home and garden improvements. Such symbolic elements in the design accentuate HGTV’s commitment to inspiring and guiding its viewers on their home improvement journeys.
HSBC
HSBC’s emblem, with its geometric allure, initially appears to be a mere abstract design. When scrutinized, it reveals a clever composition of six distinct triangles. This intricate arrangement gives the illusion of a container unveiling its contents.
The palette, dominated by red and white hues within the triangles, carries more than just aesthetic appeal. Red traditionally denotes energy, vigor, and determination, while white represents purity, clarity, and precision. Together, they encapsulate HSBC’s enthusiasm for innovation and its transparent approach to banking.
Beyond the colors, the fusion of triangles to craft a quasi-square design isn’t just a random artistic choice. It subtly conveys the bank’s foundational solidity, steadfastness, and unwavering commitment to its global clientele. In a realm where trust is paramount, such design nuances speak volumes about the bank’s dedication to ensuring security and consistency in its services.
Infiniti
The triangle has consistently stood out in automotive brand imagery as a preferred geometric design. This is largely attributed to its innate ability to resonate with themes of dynamism and orientation. A case in point is the emblem of Infiniti, a renowned Japanese automotive brand. In a masterstroke of design, this emblem subtly weaves a triangle using negative space, set within the confines of an oval. This unique combination hints at notions of unity and collective progress and reinforces the brand’s thrust on breakthrough thinking.
The triangular form evokes imagery of a road seamlessly melding with the distant horizon. This depiction symbolizes Infiniti’s unyielding focus on advancing its product range, particularly emphasizing its ambitions in electric and hybrid vehicles. It’s a design that promises a journey marked by innovation and a vision of the future.
Kenwood
Kenwood’s emblem, characterized by its understated elegance, merges a straightforward sans-serif typeface with a striking red triangle, making it an attention-grabbing centerpiece. This distinct design choice differentiates the brand in a competitive market and carries significant symbolic value.
The triangle, prominent in its orientation, symbolizes concepts like innovation, peak performance, and a solid foundation. It delicately positioned on its apex conveys a sense of equilibrium and precision. Such design elements underscore Kenwood’s commitment to excellence and pursuit of breakthroughs in its industry sector. The choice of red for the triangle further accentuates its significance, emphasizing passion, energy, and determination.
Metallica
Metallica, a name that resonates profoundly in the music domain, uniquely integrates the essence of triangles in its branding, albeit in a different manner. Triangular forms, recognized for their sharp angles, naturally convey notions of edginess, aggression, and a break from the norm.
In Metallica’s symbolic representation, the acute nature of the “A” located centrally in their name is notably emphasized. Furthermore, their brand name’s first and last characters exhibit a distinct angularity. This design choice culminates in a visual identity that exudes a gothic, audacious aura, fitting seamlessly with the band’s robust musical persona. The Metallica emblem distinctly mirrors the band’s aggressive, pioneering spirit and is a testament to their legendary status in the rock domain.
Mitsubishi
The Mitsubishi logo contains complex design elements that may not be immediately noticed. While the three diamonds are the primary figures that catch the eye, the negative space formed between these diamonds is just as significant.
These individual triangular spaces, converging at the center, communicate a theme of convergence and cohesion. The design implies a gathering point or nexus, subtly hinting at unity and collaboration.
Viewed holistically, the trio of diamonds collectively echoes the triangular theme. The apex of this larger triangle points skyward, suggesting an upward trajectory. This orientation is not accidental; it symbolizes aspirations, evolution, and an unyielding drive to innovate. Mitsubishi conveys a brand philosophy rooted in progress, exploration, and relentless advancement through its emblem.
Motorola
Motorola logo, showcasing a distinctively stylized “M,” carries a deep symbolic weight. The two pronounced peaks of the “M” evoke images of towering mountain ranges, subtly suggesting notions of aspiration, expansion, and strength. The design cleverly integrates a triangle within the negative space between the two peaks.
Triangles, often associated with dynamism and progress, reinforce Motorola’s image as a pioneering, avant-garde entity in the telecommunication realm. This geometric inclusion further emphasizes the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries and constantly evolving. By incorporating such a design, Motorola has distinguished itself from numerous other telecommunication brands, many lacking a recognizable geometric motif. This differentiation allows Motorola to cement its unique identity in a competitive market, resonating with its audience’s appreciation for innovation and boldness.
Palace
Golded in extreme sports, Palace Skateboards offer a fresh spin on the classic triangular motif. By slightly smoothing out the traditionally sharp angles, the brand crafts a three-dimensional logo that embodies creativity and playfulness, mirroring the essence of its clientele.
This distinctive design creates a mesmerizing optical illusion. The intricacies of the interwoven lines invite the viewer’s gaze to trace a perpetual, cyclical motion, ensuring sustained attention. Such a captivating design grabs the observer’s attention and stimulates cognitive intrigue. Palace Skateboards showcases its products and encapsulates the dynamic, free-spirited nature of skateboarding culture.
Prada
Prada, a renowned name in the fashion industry, incorporates various emblems and symbols throughout its range of products and promotional materials. A particularly distinctive design among these is an emblem that encapsulates the brand’s name, origin city, and establishment year, all set within a downward-pointing triangle.
The choice of using an inverted triangle in the design serves a multifaceted purpose. Primarily, it directs an observer’s gaze downward, naturally leading the eyes toward the focal point, often the apparel or accessory it adorns. This design tactic accentuates the showcased item and effectively communicates crucial details about the brand’s lineage and legacy. This approach underscores Prada’s expertise in melding captivating aesthetics with substantive brand narratives.
Qantas
The Qantas badge showcases a unique geometric form that, while reminiscent of a triangle, has been modified with a curvature at its apex, evolving into more of a rhomboid figure. This distinctive shape is significant in conveying the company’s ethos and identity.
The design is notably influenced by the tail fin of a Qantas aircraft, serving as a visual representation of the brand’s core domain – aviation. The upward orientation of the triangle’s peak symbolizes ascension, a nod to the boundless skies and the limitless possibilities of air travel. This design choice resonates with the essence of flight and underscores Quantas’ commitment to soaring standards and elevating the passenger experience.
Quiksilver
Quiksilver, established in 1969, has carved a distinctive niche in surf-inspired attire, catering to a specific group of enthusiasts and athletes. The brand has expanded its horizons from its humble beginnings, reaching a global clientele with its unique offerings.
The Quiksilver badge reveals a collection of abstract triangles that collectively take on the form reminiscent of a mountain. This design choice serves as a symbolic nod to the formidable force of nature, mirroring the relentless waves that surfers combat. Beyond representing nature’s might, these peaks symbolize challenges, adventures, and the pursuit of heights – literally and metaphorically.
The upward-pointing arrows in the logo accentuate Quiksilver’s forward-thinking ethos. These arrows imply elevation and reflect the brand’s dedication to fostering ambition. It subtly conveys that Quiksilver isn’t just about clothing; it’s about pushing boundaries, chasing dreams, and embracing the spirit of adventure.
Reebok
Reebok’s branding has prominently incorporated triangular patterns, revealing its knack for utilizing geometry in its visual identity. A notable feature found on numerous Reebok footwear is the distinguishing slashes infused with triangular elements. A contemporary representation, christened the “Delta” symbol, intertwines three distinct geometric components, culminating in a triangular design.
The “Delta” emblem, in contrast to some sharper triangular logos in the industry, exudes a gentler aura. Its softened edges and truncated corners bestow the logo with a friendly, accessible demeanor. Such design nuances hint at Reebok’s commitment to progress and creativity while simultaneously evoking an aura of inclusivity and warmth. This harmonious blend of design and symbolism effectively communicates the brand’s forward-thinking ethos while ensuring approachability.
RVCA
Founded in 1999, RVCA is a testament to California’s vibrant fashion scene. The brand’s emblem possesses a captivating element: the central part of the “A” is fashioned to resemble an inverted “V,” echoing the shape of a triangle. This design nuance isn’t mere aesthetics; it carries a profound message.
The interplay between the “V” and the “A” in RVCA’s logotype isn’t just a design choice; it symbolizes deeper brand values. The mirroring of these letters reflects the brand’s dedication to harmony and equilibrium, emphasizing its commitment to the juxtaposition and unity of divergent elements. By crafting a logo that seamlessly melds these two letters, RVCA visually communicates its ethos of harmonizing “opposites,” bringing together contrasting worlds and ideals. This innovative design strategy underscores the brand’s unique positioning in the fashion industry, underscoring its Californian roots and commitment to originality and balance.
Toblerone
Triangular shapes, prevalent in both natural settings and human-engineered structures, evoke feelings of familiarity and stability. These three-sided figures manifest in the towering peaks of mountains, the gentle undulations of hills, and architectural feats, including bridges and skyscrapers. Their inclusion in design elements can effectively channel associations with deep-seated concepts and memories.
One notable instance of this design philosophy is the logo of Toblerone. The logo prominently showcases a golden, triangular representation of a mountain, unmistakably modeled after Switzerland’s renowned Matterhorn. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this design serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it anchors Toblerone’s identity in its Swiss roots, highlighting the brand’s rich heritage. Secondly, it subtly emphasizes the brand’s commitment to incorporating pure, natural ingredients in its products, drawing a connection between the pristine Swiss Alps and the quality of its confectioneries. Toblerone weaves a tale of tradition, quality, and authenticity through this symbolic representation.
Varta
Varta, a German establishment with deep roots in battery manufacturing, has carved its niche across industrial, consumer, and automotive segments. While it might not share the limelight with other globally recognized brands, its emblem stands out.
The Varta emblem features an eye-catching inverted yellow triangle. This geometric figure cleverly alludes to the initial letter “V” from the brand’s name. The triangle’s design evokes the imagery of a flashlight’s illuminating beam. This design choice subtly underscores the myriad applications of Varta’s batteries, emphasizing how their products bring energy and light to various devices. The triangular motif in the emblem enhances brand recognition and conveys the idea of direction, focus, and purpose, aligning with Varta’s commitment to innovation and excellence in battery technology.
Volcom
Volcom, recognized as a quintessential “lifestyle” brand, showcases a striking emblem fondly referred to as “the stone.” This emblem adeptly merges geometric elements in monochromatic tones to craft a dynamic 3D visual. Within its design, two downward-pointing triangles envelop a central diamond, producing an intricate interplay of shapes.
The design of Volcom’s logo captivates the viewer and infuses a certain edginess into its appearance. Given Volcom’s close association with high-adrenaline activities such as snowboarding and skating, “The Stone” is a fitting representation. It encapsulates the thrill, passion, and dynamism that these extreme sports embody. The simple black-and-white hues and geometric precision mirror the brand’s commitment to style and substance.
YouTube
The emblem of YouTube, while not always featuring the prominent white triangle set against a red backdrop, remains deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of global internet users. It’s the signature design often encountered when one installs the YouTube mobile application.
This rightward-pointing triangle holds significant symbolism in Western culture. The direction to the right is often synonymous with advancing, moving ahead, or making progress. Within the context of YouTube, this triangle further emphasizes the platform’s role in driving the realm of digital content, pushing boundaries, and constantly evolving in online media. The simplicity of this symbol, combined with its universally understood message, makes it an effective and powerful tool for branding. It signifies playing a video and symbolizes the continual progression and innovation of the digital age.
Using logos with triangles
Within the realm of logo design, the triangle stands as a formidable symbol, bearing the weight of multiple interpretations. The symbolic presence of this geometric shape in numerous renowned logos underscores its versatility in representing various notions and concepts.
Taking a closer look at triangle utilization in branding reveals intricate nuances. The triangle’s precise positioning, style, and orientation can yield many perceptions about the brand it represents. This attention to detail can profoundly shape and steer a brand’s narrative.
Sharp-edged triangles tend to radiate an aura of audacity, decisiveness, and a pioneering spirit. Such designs often resonate with brands that pride themselves on breaking new ground or championing avant-garde innovations. Triangles with softer, rounded edges evoke unity, warmth, and community engagement. They provide a visual embrace, suggesting a brand’s inclination towards collaboration and inclusivity.
The triangle’s orientation further accentuates its communicative prowess. When directed toward the right, it insinuates dynamism, continuity, and an unrelenting march toward the future. An upward-pointing triangle, meanwhile, serves as a beacon of aspirations, hinting at the brand’s upward trajectory and its ceaseless quest for excellence and reinvention.
The journey of crystallizing a brand’s ethos into a triangle-based logo necessitates expert guidance. Engaging with seasoned graphic design experts can be invaluable. These professionals possess the understanding to discern the optimal design alignment for a brand, ensuring the triangle captures the essence of the brand and resonates deeply with its audience.
