Logo Design:
Green Trails Inn
Great friends of mine, Josh and Andrew, left their lives in Dallas to embark on a new journey in Vermont. They purchased the historic Green Trails Inn from its previous owner’s estate, intending to revitalize the bed & breakfast. They wanted to create a space that honoured the inn’s history while providing a fresh, welcoming experience for guests. The rebranding project focused on building a strong visual identity that reflected their vision of hospitality, comfort, and connection to the local community.
Project Details
Client: Josh & Andrew
Date: October 2024
Skills: Logo Design
Initial Concepts
Number of Designs
Turnaround Days
Conceptualize
The logo concept was built around themes of tradition, warmth, and a strong sense of place. Josh and Andrew wanted the design to capture the inn’s rich history while feeling timeless and inviting. The primary imagery for the logo would combine something that represented the state of Vermont. After much discussion, we decided the state bird, the hermit thrush, would be a perfect logo. The hermit thrush symbolizes nature and community, tying the inn’s identity to Vermont’s landscape and heritage. The key represents history, access, and the warmth of an open-door welcome. Together, these elements create a visual story that reflects the charm and hospitality of Green Trails Inn.
The secondary logo continues this theme with crossed keys, reinforcing the idea of tradition, history, and hospitality. The logo system was designed for versatility, ensuring it could be used across digital platforms, signage, and printed materials without losing impact. Every detail was carefully considered to create a brand identity that aligns with the inn’s purpose and values.
Create
The design process focused on crafting a clean, recognizable logo that balances history with modern appeal. The two key visual elements—the antique key and the hermit thrush—were chosen for their deep symbolism and connection to the inn’s identity. I started with different photos of the hermit thrush bird, in different positions (in flight, sitting, singing) to find the right feel for the logo.
The initial drawings had a “chubbier” hermit thrush with his mouth open, singing, and the key was a simple, straightforward design based on one of the room keys the guys sent me a picture of. Over the course of a “few” revisions, we settled on the design you see above. A classic version of the bird and a more intricate antique key for the bird to rest.
The antique key represents hospitality, heritage, and a sense of welcome. It visually connects to the inn’s history and the tradition of opening doors for travelers. The intricate details of the key reflect the timeless charm and character of Green Trails Inn.
The hermit thrush, Vermont’s state bird, reinforces the inn’s connection to nature and community. Known for its melodic song and presence in quiet, wooded areas, the hermit thrush symbolizes peace, comfort, and the natural beauty that surrounds the inn. Its inclusion in the logo emphasizes the tranquil retreat that Josh and Andrew have worked to create.
Typography plays a critical role in strengthening the brand’s identity. The serif typeface, IM Fell English SC, was chosen for its historical connection and old-world charm. Originally designed in the 17th century, this typeface adds a sense of tradition and authenticity. It ensures the brand maintains a classic, refined appearance. The secondary font, PT Serif, provides excellent readability while complementing the elegance of the wordmark.
The colour palette enhances the logo’s message. Brunswick Green reflects nature, balance, and a sense of renewal, making it an ideal choice for a hospitality brand set in Vermont. Chamoisee, a warm, earthy brown, represents tradition, comfort, and rustic charm. Jet Black adds contrast and a timeless quality, while Pure White keeps the overall look clean and refined. These colors work together to reinforce the brand’s message of hospitality and history.
Communicate
The Green Trails Inn logo communicates more than just a name. It conveys a sense of place, history, and warmth. This design aligns perfectly with Josh and Andrew’s vision for the inn. They wanted a brand identity that reflects their commitment to providing guests with a welcoming, memorable experience. The logo creates an immediate connection, setting the right expectations for visitors before they even step through the door. Every detail of the design supports their mission to preserve the inn’s history while making it a comfortable and inviting destination for the future.
This rebrand positions Green Trails Inn as a place where history and hospitality come together. It ensures that guests recognize and trust the inn’s identity at every touchpoint, from the website to printed materials and signage. The new logo successfully captures the heart of what Josh and Andrew set out to create: a welcoming space rooted in tradition and community.
Graphic Design Skills Used: Vector Graphic Creation; Layout Design; Colour Theory; Typography