Thoughtful Brands. Genuine Partnerships.
Hey, I’m Charles, the designer behind Studio CA, an independent brand studio built around thoughtful strategy, considered design and genuine collaboration.
I work with ambitious founders and businesses to turn exciting ideas into distinctive brands they can feel confident putting into the world.
With 13+ years of experience across branding and design, I bring a strategic eye, a love of craft and a curious approach to every project. I take the time to understand what’s behind the business before shaping how it looks, feels and communicates.
With 13+ years in design, I’ve worked across branding, identity and creative direction for businesses ranging from ambitious start-ups to established brands and creative teams. That experience has taught me that good branding starts long before the design itself, with listening, asking the right questions and understanding what you’re really trying to build.
I’m naturally curious, so inspiration rarely comes from just the design world. Music, fashion, sport, art, photography, travel, architecture and culture all influence how I think and create. I’m always looking beyond the obvious to find ideas and references that can give a brand its own point of view.
I believe the best branding should feel clear, distinctive and built to last. It should communicate who you are without explanation, make people feel something and give you confidence in what you’re building.
Most importantly, I believe the process should be as considered as the outcome. It should feel collaborative, enjoyable and human, with enough expertise to guide you, and enough space for us to build something together.
Thoughtful branding. Built together. Made to last.
Process
Great branding starts with understanding. I believe the best work happens when there’s a genuine understanding between designer and client. That’s why I take the time to get to know your business, your ambitions and what you want people to feel when they encounter your brand.
From our first conversation through to the final handover, we’ll explore ideas, share perspectives and build the identity together. The process is structured and expertly led, but always relaxed, open and collaborative.
The goal isn’t simply to create a brand that looks good. It’s to create one that feels right, communicates clearly and gives you confidence in where you’re going.
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Let’s start with a conversation.
Every project starts with a relaxed 25-minute call to get to know you, your business and what you’re hoping to build.
We’ll talk through:
Where your business is now and where you want to take it.
What you want your brand to communicate and how you want people to feel.
What you’re looking for creatively and where you might need guidance.
How I work, what the project could look like and whether we’re the right fit for each other.
There’s no hard sell and no expectation to have everything figured out. This is simply a chance to talk, ask questions and see where we could take things together.
Come as you are. Bring the ideas, even if they’re still taking shape.
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With insights from our conversation and my branding questionnaire, I begin the research and creative process.
In-depth brand research to ensure clarity, strategy, and distinction.
Two initial brand concepts that capture your vision and market positioning.
A collaborative approach, your feedback is key to refining and perfecting the direction.
Branding is a creative collaboration, so I keep you involved throughout, ensuring the outcome aligns perfectly with your business.
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Ready for what’s next.
Once we’ve refined and signed off the identity, I bring everything together into a clear, organised brand system that’s ready to use.
You’ll receive your final brand assets, carefully prepared and organised alongside brand guidelines that show you how everything works together — from typography and colour through to the wider visual language.
But the relationship doesn’t have to end when the files are delivered. If you need support bringing the identity to life across your website, social content, packaging, print or other brand touchpoints, I’m here to help.
The goal is simple: to leave you with a brand you understand, feel confident using and can continue to build on as your business grows.
Experience
2021 - Present
Freelance Brand Designer
Studio CA
2019 - 2021
Creative Designer
Gung Ho Communications
2018 - 2019
Middleweight Designer
Synergy Agency
2015 - 2017
Junior Designer
MADISONSOHO
2013 - 2014
Junior Designer
Keane Brands