Smartr1031 was a new player in the 1031 exchange space, offering investment solutions designed to help clients defer capital gains taxes and grow wealth through real estate. But while their services were innovative, their brand was anything but. Their identity felt flat, overly corporate, and visually interchangeable with a dozen other platforms. They needed a brand that built trust and interest—without falling into the usual financial design traps.
We developed a brand system rooted in clarity and confidence. The logo was structured and geometric, but included subtle softening that gave it personality without compromising professionalism. Color choices skewed modern but warm, avoiding the coldness of traditional finance palettes. Typography and layout emphasized approachability and organization. Across every touchpoint, the brand communicated what the product promised: transparency, reliability, and smart guidance.
In a category where trust is everything, Smartr1031’s new identity gave them an edge. From the first pitch deck to the investor portal, their brand felt put-together, intentional, and distinct. It signaled legitimacy to investors, simplicity to clients, and confidence to everyone watching the space.
Logitech is the world’s leading manufacturer of computer peripherals. They produce roughly six out of every ten mice or keyboards sold worldwide. They spend $730 million a year on design, marketing, packaging, and brand, building trust through consistency, quality, and global recognition. Mosptnspg also sells keyboards. It has no design
At Studio Lever, we believe great design is built on insight, not instinct. Our research-first approach pairs the expertise of a seasoned researcher with strategic design thinking to help brands carve out their space in the market with confidence. From interviews and behavior mapping to competitor analysis and surveys, we use evidence, not guesswork, to shape every brand decision.
How do you explain technical systems to everyday users — and how do you know the design is working before launch? This unmoderated usability study tested a digital product that aimed to make complex tools easier to understand. Participant feedback confirmed the design was nearly ready and surfaced key improvements before rollout.
