Colour Training

EcoDeck Colour Identity

Colour Issue: Can Colour Design Break the ‘Green-Equals-Sustainable’ Mindset?

Colour Design | Visual Identity | Colour Semantics

Development of a structured colour design system aimed at building coherent visual identity solutions that challenge biased, hue-based, and stereotyped colour semantic associations. ECODeCK is an innovative research initiative (MICS, PNNR, Italy) aimed at helping manufacturing companies shift toward sustainable practices. The project required a bold and original colour approach to their brand identity (previously designed)—one that would break free from clichés and support a deeper, more inclusive message around sustainability. Rather than relying on the typical “eco-green” palette, the goal was to challenge outdated, hue-based associations and build a fresh, meaningful visual identity rooted in the project’s core values.

To meet this challenge, I created a six-step colour design methodology tailored to the project’s unique goals. The result is a robust colour identity built around four core colours and their hue families. This chromatic system is not only visually distinctive, but also designed for strategic use—supporting decision-making, future palette expansions, and consistent communication. The system balances creativity with functionality. It integrates key colour principles to ensure high contrast, visibility, and legibility across all of ECODeCK’s communication materials. Supporting tools were also developed to guide the palette’s application, making it adaptable and easy to use across different formats and media.

Commissioner: ECODeCK team – MICS, PNNR, Italy.
Year: 2024.