Sansé
& Naja
Naming • Brand Visual + Verbal Identity • Web Design • Experiential Visual Identity
Client
Housing Alexandria
Year
2022
Industry
Real Estate
about
the client
Housing Alexandria is a non-profit community developer based in Alexandria, VA, with a mission of creating and preserving quality affordable housing and community spaces that empower residents of Alexandria.
about
the project
One of their current projects will bring 475 units of affordable housing to Arlandria-Chirilagua, a diverse community with strong Central American roots. The client required a comprehensive brand and design strategy for this vital community project and partnered with FORMA on this initiative.
the
challenge
The first challenge was to create the brand identity for this development. The FORMA team completed extensive research of the neighborhood of Arlandria-Chirilagua to learn about its rich history. Based on this information, FORMA crafted a brand identity that would keep the new development connected to its Central American heritage.
the branding
process
The final names of the buildings is Sansé + Naja: both names come from Nahuat, a native Salvadorian language. The names signify a contrast yet union of two different concepts: Sansé symbolizes the community coming together as a whole, while Naja represents the strong identities and individuals that comprise the neighborhood.
With the brand identity finalized, FORMA will continue to build on the design strategy plan, including website design, wayfinding and signage, collateral material design, and a film documentary.
the
website
This narrative of building a growing and connected community is echoed on the website, with a visual tour of MRP Realty’s vision of developing a thriving family-friendly neighborhood. User experience is fluid, as visitors can easily navigate the menus to find information about the development, whether it is about building amenities, affordable living qualifications, or floorplans.
designer
insights
The branding elements are integrated into all marketing materials – from website to wayfinding to brochures – so a consistent brand identity and the unique character of The Bridge are reflected across all communications.
project
recognition
Sansé + Naja’s branding won two silver MUSE awards in 2023 in the categories of corporate brand identity and corporate identity – logos.
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