The Challenge

Third Place Books is a beloved independent bookseller with three locations in the Seattle area. Each bookstore offers an abundance of local events and happenings, requiring advertising for both print, web and social media. How might we unify the brand across media, while staying true to the Seattle neighborhood’s look and feel?

The Solution

The goal was to capture the feeling of Our Neighborhood Getaway, for the Third Place Books rebrand. The feeling of a neighborhood getaway focuses on community, thoughtfulness and authenticity. Through research and brand discovery, we developed a mission statement, positioning and brand promise, which guided the brand identity and application process. Everything from colors, patterns and physical collateral maintain an inviting, neighborhood feel while offering flexibility for future design assets.

Role & Duration

Role | Brand Development, Brand Identity, Layout, Content Strategy

Duration | 11 Weeks
Jan 2021 - Mar 2021

Team | Solo Project

Methods | Research, Brainstorming, Brand Discovery, Brand Application

Tools | Adobe XD, Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Miro

History

Their three locations are located in Lake Forest Park (founded 1998), Ravenna (2002), and Seward Park (2016). These stores are the brainchild of the visionary Seattle developer Ron Sher, and the founding concept is described as “the deliberate and intentional creation of a community around books and the ideas inside them.”

The name—Third Place Books—comes from a concept originally described by the sociologist Ray Oldenberg. His theory argues that each person needs three places, a home (first), a workplace or school (second), and a place for community to interact (third) like a pub, town square, or other gathering place. Third Place Books locations, along with the restaurants and pubs they host are an embodiment of this philosophy.

Audience

Third Place Books has a wide variety of visitors ranging from local high school students to seniors. They see an intrinsic value in community connection, and see books as a tool for self-improvement and fulfillment. A large demographic of their audience is individuals and couples in their 30’s, making a trip to the bookstore for a new read and a cup of coffee.

With a well developed selection of children’s books and social media accounts directed specifically at young readers, the primary audience also includes Seattle parents and their blossoming readers.

Mission

Third Place Books is a place for all to gather, discover, and learn. We foster community through exploration and curiosity, and guide you through the exciting world of literary treasures.

Positioning

For our Seattle neighborhoods, Third Place Books provides a safe, communal place to connect with others through books, events and food. Customers can find what they need within our curated selection with the help of our knowledgeable staff.

Brand Promise

We believe that everyone needs a place to experience and celebrate books. That is why we go beyond the conventional bookstore experience by offering gathering spaces, community events, education, dining, and an unrivaled selection of curated books and merchandise for all ages.