Client – The Griffin
Amersham's Worst Kept Secret
Brand Identity
The Griffin, at No. 12, The Broadway in Old Amersham is a beautiful old building which dates back to the Tudor period. It was a typical old coaching inn with a high arched gateway and cobbled yard which used to be called The Wyvern. Over the years the property was passed on from different landlords and numerous innkeepers. The Griffin served as the town’s inn, a malthouse and also a clubhouse housing various gatherings. It has also seen many distinguished guests, among which were the general and statesman Oliver Cromwell who is reputed to have dined at the Griffin back in the 1600s; and also McNeil Whistler, the famous 20th Century American artist, who had lunch at the inn and commented that it was “an old house, charming, and the kitchen amazing”. The Griffin has now reopened as a thriving and atmospheric bistro and club serving a seasonal, classically refined, gastronomic experience. Studio Projet Noir was commissioned to create a visual brand identity for this new bistro and club in the heart of Old Amersham. We sought to create something that distinguishes this venue in the best possible way. In keeping with tradition, we illustrated a new griffin symbol, recalling the versions that were designed in the past. The custom, carefully handcrafted symbol was then paired with the wordmark set in a high contrast, wide serif typeface creating an elegant and contemporary brand expression. The club’s exclusive interior reflects the chosen colour palette which marries the cottage-style timber frames and warm brick features of the building, together with the mid century-inspired furnishings and fabrics.