Branding and Website
Client
Esta Barrett Manor and Gardens
Industry
Nonprofit
Our Expertise:
Branding
Website Design
Marketing
Content Development
Graphic Design
Located on the National Register of Historic Places, Esta Barrett Manor and Gardens (formerly Indian Hill Manor and Farm) is a “country gentlemen’s farm,” serving as a rural retreat for wealthy families in the early 1900s. Designed by architect Charles Bradley and landscape gardener O.C. Simonds for Charles and Esta Barrett, the estate overlooks the Rock and Kishwaukee rivers. The Smeja Homestead Foundation supports the preservation of the manor and grounds, focusing on historic, soil, and wildlife conservation.
To elevate the property’s profile and share its rich history with a wider audience, the Board chose to rename it Esta Barrett Manor and Gardens. Their goal was to develop a brand and website that would capture this new identity and effectively promote the property’s legacy, programs, and offerings.
Solution
To align with the newly adopted name and objectives, Chartwell Agency developed a comprehensive brand identity and website for Esta Barrett Manor and Gardens. The brand design centered around a logo that captured the essence of the property’s history and vision for the future. The logo concept incorporated elements from the manor’s architecture and landscape design, such as the welcoming front entrance with its distinctive barreled roof and sturdy pillars, and the Carolina Rose, a flower selected by O.C. Simonds for the gardens.
The website was designed to serve as a central hub for visitors and the community, offering a platform for promoting events, sharing the property’s story, and driving traffic from both traditional and digital advertising. The site is visually aligned with the new brand and provides an intuitive user experience, ensuring that the story of Esta Barrett Manor and Gardens is accessible and engaging.
Outcomes
The new brand has effectively communicated the legacy of Esta Barrett Manor and Gardens, building recognition and establishing a strong connection to its rich history. The enhanced online presence through the website has positioned the property as a destination of interest, leading to increased awareness and visitor engagement. The logo and branding elements have aligned seamlessly with the property’s historical significance, setting the stage for future growth and preservation efforts.
Additionally, the new website and branding have laid the foundation for heightened community involvement, positioning Esta Barrett Manor and Gardens as a cultural and historical landmark within the state and beyond.
Chartwell Agency specializes in creating impactful brands and innovative websites that drive meaningful business results. Combining customer research with powerful messaging, vibrant design, and a strong brand identity, the agency crafts unique brands and lead-generating websites that set clients apart from their competition.
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repperson@chartwellagency.com
Rockford
Chartwell Agency
120 West State Street, Suite 305
Rockford, IL 61101
(815) 282-9976