Monteso

For decades, the only Montessori school in Antwerp was known as Vita et Pax. The name sounded rather elite, and the school wanted one that was more up-front and welcoming. The education itself is rooted in the research of anthropologist Maria Montessori. Teachers act as mentors who guide pupils to gather knowledge in their own way, at their own pace. Pupils stay in control of their own development. The balance between regulations and independence gives children room to explore and try things themselves. As the founder said, “learning starts by exploring”. Mutual respect across the age groups and the teaching staff supports the growth of each individual. The brand had to reflect that atmosphere.

We created a new term by merging 'montes', Latin for hills, with 'Montessori'. With Monteso, we strengthened the connection between the methodology and the community. For the visual side, we looked at the tools the school uses in its classrooms. The authentic didactical materials inspired a 'building block' design system. The minimalist shapes and vibrant colours of the wooden blocks suit the fun and friendly atmosphere of the school. They were the right ingredients to express the brand. The school's own method gave us the starting point for both the name and the look.

We gave the school a new name, Monteso, to replace Vita et Pax. We also optimised its logo, website and uniform. All of them draw on the wooden building blocks from the classrooms, with their minimalist shapes and vibrant colours. On top of that, we made inspiring guidelines and lively figures. They give Monteso endless possibilities to keep building its brand, in a style that fits the fun and friendly feel of the school.