Bartholomew Hawkins

Stripping back their previous logo – an elaborate, intricate, heraldic coat of arms – we simplified down to the core element, a Knight; an apt symbol of strength, integrity, guardianship and heritage. 

The new Mark’s form mirrors that of a chess piece; likening wealth management and financial planning to the qualities of chess – strategy, foresight, intensity and intelligence wherein the greatest mind wins. The common factor being successful in both cases requires foresight and the ability to acutely process every permutation of each variable, adapting swiftly and smartly.

The Mark features a ribbon-like flourish which on one level gives a contemporary nod to the previous logo’s heraldic mantling, whilst on another, makes quiet reference to the company’s Chartered status. This is one of their primary service propositions which enables BH to stand apart from a vast number of competitors and one-man operations.

The ribbon expands throughout the brand to a series of bespoke illustrations. These assets are introduced bring to a distinct differentiation against a vista of unimaginative industry-typical backdrop of staid, metaphor-filled or staged stock imagery.

It was crucial that Bartholomew Hawkins was represented as a collaborative team of accomplished, experienced experts and not the average sole trader or high street advisor. They are a team of product specialists who collectively craft holistic advice and connected strategy with the aim of growing their clients’ wealth and in doing so securing their future. This inspired the strapline ‘Expert minds make bright futures’ – a play on the adage ‘many hands make light work.’

The group is split into two divisions; BH IFA and, for high-net-worth clients, BH Asset Management. Colour creates the visual distinction between the two; a purple/grey palette for BHIFA and black/gold for BHAM. Evolving the notion of chess, these palettes form the basis of a custom, handmade set...

We commissioned Purling London, whose deluxe and bespoke art chess sets sell internationally and through retailers including Harrods. Collaborating with Midlands-based artist Kate Brinkworth, the two crafted a one-off chess set that would create a striking and impressive centrepiece in the firm’s conference room.

Each triple-weighted, boxwood piece is hand-carved and individually painted at the artist’s studio. They sit upon an exquisite custom lightbox-come-board, handmade by a local framer using French hardwood and strengthened glass to create a dramatic, up-lit finish. 

Photography documenting each step of the production journey captures the manufacture, illustrating the care, quality and craftsmanship whilst building a layered story. The attention to the detail amplifies the brand’s values and intelligently reinforces the message of a connected team of specialists. 

The new brand has been implemented online and offline across collateral including advertising, stationery, literature and direct mail. Their Cardiff Gate headquarters was transformed by carrying elements of the visuals throughout, creating an impressive branded interior for both staff and clients to enjoy.