MAD is a cutting-edge digital news portal and online journal founded in 2024. It focuses on design, marketing, and advertising. Created by the Istanbul Marketing Group, known for its annual Istanbul Marketing Awards and Summit, MAD aims to push industry boundaries and inspire creativity. It serves as a meeting place for the creative community, an inspiration source, and an educational resource. The design agency Ba’ndo, based in London and Istanbul, crafted MAD’s identity.
The publication’s goal of making a distinctive impression in the marketing and design industry is reflected in the platform’s bold and creative new logo. The asymmetrical bottom angles of the “M” in the main typeface give it an abstract and unique form that can be cropped into a square, creating a distinct visual identity. This design choice makes the “M” adaptable and easily recognizable, reflecting the platform’s erratic and inventive nature.
The “A” in the logo is positioned boldly with a broad proportion, contributing to the overall strong and confident image. However, the “D” deviates slightly from the sharp motif with its circular right side, contrasting with the geometric shapes of the “M” and “A.” Squaring off the counter space or making it more block-like could have improved consistency, but the “D” adds a whimsical touch that keeps the logo unique and visually appealing.
One notable design feature on the website is the interaction of fonts. Script words “this” and “is” are tucked between the bold letters, complementing the main logo. Though the composition may seem forced, the contrast between the bold typography and the soft, flowing script is visually pleasing, aligning with the platform’s philosophy of blending various creative elements.
Beyond the logo, the visual identity uses the Roboto and Newsreader font families, both free Google Fonts. Despite their ubiquity, the design team has given them a fun and interesting twist. Roboto’s all-caps font and crisp spacing provide a contemporary, aggressive edge, while Newsreader’s classic serif font offers a sophisticated, readable contrast.
The color scheme plays a significant role in its brand identity. The bright, vibrant primary colors reflect the publication’s dynamic and energetic tone. Using contrasting hues enhances visual appeal, draws attention to different website sections, and aids user navigation.
The website’s design is simple but effective, with attention-grabbing headlines and large photos that capture the reader’s attention. The layout highlights enthusiasm and creativity in each piece of content, including marketing strategies and design projects. The intuitive user interface ensures users can quickly find the information they need while enjoying a visually stunning experience.
Modular design features throughout the website and digital touchpoints add creativity and adaptability. Inspired by modern web design trends, these elements ensure the platform remains a leader in the digital space. This combination of elements enhances user experience, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
Rebranding the publication is a strategic effort to position the company as a design, advertising, and marketing leader. The platform effectively communicates its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation by blending striking graphic elements with a compelling brand narrative. The new brand provides a visual makeover and reinforces its mission to serve as a platform for creative professionals and amateurs.
