ALTA RIVIERA
ALTA RIVIERA
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Client: Alta Riviera (Fictitious Project)
Project: Branding & Visual Identity for a Luxury Apartment Complex in Santa Barbara, CA
Alta Riviera, a new luxury apartment complex in Santa Barbara, required a brand identity that encapsulated the essence of coastal chic living and the culturally vibrant community of the region. The goal was to create a sophisticated, yet welcoming brand that would appeal to young professionals and urban explorers seeking a blend of modern amenities and cultural richness.
Design Process
Research and Inspiration
The project began with a deep dive into the lifestyle and cultural landscape of Santa Barbara. Understanding the target demographic - young professionals and urban explorers - was crucial in crafting a brand that resonated with those seeking an upscale yet relaxed living environment. I explored the region’s are scene, historical landmarks, and natural beauty as well as Santa Barbara’s history as a city to gather inspiration for the brand’s visual elements.
Logo Design
The Alta Riviera logo was designed to be both distinctive and timeless, reflecting the brand’s luxurious nature. I also wanted to include elements from the surrounding area and historical nods to Santa Barbara and how it was discovered. I used a clean, serif typeface (Henderson Slab) to convey sophistication, paired with a script accent (Douglas-Aaronade Script) that added a personal, welcoming touch. The combination of these typefaces created a visual contrast that highlighted the dual nature of Alta Riviera - elegant yet approachable.
Typography and Brand Elements
The choice of typography and supporting elements was driven by the need to maintain a cohesive and flexible identity. Gotham Regular was selected for body text to ensure clarity and readability across various platforms. The inclusion of naturalistic illustrations of Santa Barbara’s historical sights added a layer of local authenticity, grounding the brand in its cultural context.
Brand Voice & Messaging
Crafting the verbal identity was an integral part of the process. The brand voice was designed to be sophisticated yet welcoming, mirroring the refined yet accessible lifestyle that Alta Riviera offers. Taglines such as “Luxury Living Redefined” and “Your Coastal Oasis Awaits” were developed to communicate the brand’s promise of a unique living experience where modern comforts meet cultural richness.
Concept Development
With a clear vision of the brand’s essence, I developed concepts that combined sophistication with the laid-back charm of coastal living, all while paying homage to Santa Barbara’s rick ranching history. Alta Riviera needed to embody the luxurious amenities of a modern apartment complex while also connecting deeply with the cultural and historical context of this location. Santa Barbara’s ranching history is a key aspect of the region’s identity, characterized by sprawling estates, Spanish-style architecture, and a legacy of craftsmanship and connection to the land. I wanted to reflect this in Alta Riviera’s branding, ensuring that it felt authentic to its surroundings and resonated with potential residents who value both modern comforts and a strong sense of place.
Color Palette
The color palette was inspired by the natural and cultural elements of Santa Barbara. The deep greens and burnt siennas evoke the earthy tones of the local landscape, while vibrant oranges and peaches add warmth and energy, mirroring the sunsets and festive atmosphere of the area. These colors were chosen to create a harmonious balance that feels both luxurious and connected to the natural landscape and environment
The final branding for Alta Riviera is redefined blend of modern luxury and cultural vibrancy, designed to attract those who value both comfort and connection. Each design decision - from the color palette to the typography - was made to ensure that Alta Riviera stands out as a premier living destination in Santa Barbara, while remaining deeply rooted in the city’s unique and cultural landscape.
This project allowed me to explore the intersection of luxury and local culture, resulting in a brand identity that is as dynamic as the community it serves. The Alta Riviera brand is a testament to the power of thoughtful design in creating spaces that people are proud to call home.
