Graphic Design Capstone
Develop a complete branding identity for a new or redesigned brand, applying core graphic design principles and creative direction. Use a structured design process to research, conceptualize, and produce a cohesive visual identity. Your final deliverables will demonstrate an understanding of brand strategy, visual storytelling, and technical design skills. Put together a presentation highlighting your creative process, design tools, and portfolio of work.
Learn more about the graphic design capstone project deliverables.
Zenith Coffee: Brand Development
Student Project: Jenn F.
This project involved creating a complete visual branding identity for Zenith Coffee, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. The student defined the brand’s concept through market research and competitor analysis, designed a distinctive logo with multiple variations, and created moodboards and style scapes to establish visual direction. Final deliverables included mockups of coffee packaging, promotional materials, print collateral, and merchandise, all compiled into a comprehensive portfolio. The final presentation detailed the design process, visual strategy, and how each design choice aligned with Zenith Coffee’s brand values and target audience.
Concepts Covered:
- Brand brief outlining mission, values, target audience, and visual direction
- Moodboard and style scape showcasing aesthetic inspiration
- Distinctive logo design with variations (color, black & white, icon-only)
- Mockups of packaging, promotional materials, and merchandise
- Professional case study portfolio documenting process and assets
VOLT Aminos: Brand Development
Student Project: Christina R.
This project focused on creating a bold, energizing brand identity for VOLT Aminos, a workout recovery supplement targeting Gen Z and Millennial fitness enthusiasts. Christina defined the brand’s mission and audience, then designed a dynamic visual identity emphasizing energy, recovery, and modern fitness culture. Final deliverables included a detailed brand brief, logo exploration with multiple variations, moodboards, product mockups, social media graphics, and urban-inspired lifestyle ads. A professional case study presentation captured the full branding process, from strategy to execution.
Concepts Covered:
- Brand brief focused on energy, convenience, and recovery
- Moodboards and style scapes with Y2K, Tech Modern, and Bauhaus/Brutalist influences
- Logo sketches and digital variations reflecting the brand’s bold aesthetic
- Mockups for packaging, lifestyle ads, and product applications
- Presentation highlighting audience targeting, design decisions, and tools used
NourishPro Yogurt: Sustainable Rebrand
Student Project: Alison O.
Alison reimagined the NourishPro yogurt brand to better connect with health-conscious consumers seeking sustainable and nutritious food options. She developed a brand strategy centered on the tagline Fuel Your Body, Nourish the Planet, then executed a clean, nature-inspired design system. Deliverables included a stylized custom logo, multiple moodboards and color palettes, eco-friendly packaging mockups, and typography aligned with the brand’s earthy, approachable tone. Her final portfolio presentation documented the process and design choices from brief to brand launch.
Concepts Covered:
- Brand brief centered on health, sustainability, and convenience
- Custom logo combining brand initials and a leaf symbol
- Abstract organic moodboards and earthy style scapes
- Packaging mockups using biodegradable materials
- Full portfolio presentation outlining the strategy, tools, and creative rationale