West Horsley Place

Solution

West Horsley Place wanted a brand that could attract and clearly communicate with audiences, to help transform their estate into a brand experience for everyone to enjoy, whether a visitor to the house and gardens, or as someone wanting to learn or expand their skill in a particular craft. Storytelling is at the heart of West Horsley Place, and something they were keen to communicate to their audiences. Their incredible library – home to a vast and historic book collection – holds thousands of fascinating stories (literally) of its own. Rose took inspiration for the new logotype and typography from the many illuminated bookplates within the library. We recommended the typography should feel crafted and elegant, but with a touch of flamboyance and eccentricity, to nod to the heritage of the house, estate and its occupants historically. Rose also took inspiration from the marbled endpapers in many of the volumes, as a metaphor for the different elements coming together and mixing to create unique experiences. We also recommended intriguing, photographic close-ups of the many extraordinary details visitors can discover, to convey aspects of the beauty and eclecticism of West Horsley Place.

Result

Our rebranding coincided with an ambitious renovation programme to resurrect West Horsley Place back to its former glory and help this grand and historic house enter a new chapter in its story, to play an important role within the community. Although still very much a work in progress, it has already grown a loyal audience base, with an exciting annual events programme. It has also generated considerable commercial revenue streams through event hire, and film and TV location opportunities, including the hugely successful BBC sitcom, Ghosts.