Ashton Reclaimed: A Brand Built by Its People
Ashton-in-Makerfield made headlines, yet reporters overlooked the town’s quiet renaissance. StudioDBD saw what others missed, and crafted a bold, living identity. Their concept, ‘Made in Makerfield’, flips nostalgia into future growth. It celebrates making, local memory, and community ownership. The brand remains intentionally unfinished, so residents can add new layers. This approach transforms a rebuilt square into a platform for stories and trade.
Typography borrows gears and tools, yet stays warm and human. Colours are confident and honest, avoiding tired sepia clichés. Art Corner invites locals to make, test ideas, and share craft. Icons and ribbon motifs nod to Walking Day, and market heritage. Every new stall, banner, or workshop becomes another design layer.
As a branding curator, I value strategies that invite ownership and evolve with use. StudioDBD’s idea is humble, clever, and profoundly place led. It proves regeneration can be people led, not just architect led. Read this piece to see how a brand can catalyse civic pride and commerce. You will leave inspired to design systems that belong to their communities. This careful, community led branding offers lessons for designers and civic leaders today.
Source: www.creativeboom.com
