
Northern Pipe Products
Project Type: Logo Redesign
client: Mock Client (Real Company)
role: Graphic designer
tools used: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop


Description
This was a self-initiated logo redesign project for Northern Pipe Products (NPP), a real PVC pipe manufacturer based in Fargo, North Dakota. I chose this company as a practice piece to strengthen my logo/branding skills and apply design principles to an existing, real-world brand. The goal was to explore how their visual identity could be improved to appear more modern, professional, and aligned with the standards of their industry competitors.
Process
I began by analyzing NPP’s existing logo, identifying areas of improvement in typography, layout, and scalability. I then conducted visual research into competitor logos to understand trends and establish benchmarks for effective design in the industrial sector. After brainstorming and rough sketching multiple concepts on paper, I selected the strongest idea and refined it in Adobe Illustrator. To contextualize the final design, I created Photoshop mockups that showcased the logo in realistic applications such as packaging, signage, and branded materials.
Reflection
This project taught me that even strong design solutions may not always be welcomed in real-world business settings. While I saw clear opportunities for improvement, I also recognized that companies like NPP—especially those with long-standing operations—may be hesitant to invest in rebranding if their business is already performing well. This experience highlighted the balance between design value and business priorities, and reminded me that good design is not just about visual improvement, but also about timing, strategy, and client readiness.






