OpenResearch

OpenResearch (formerly Y Combinator Research, chaired by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman) is a nonprofit independent collective of deep thinkers, strategists and researchers who dare to ask and investigate complex, open-ended questions such as unconditional cash in the U.S. In developing their brand identity, we took visual inspiration from the multilayered paper trail of the research world. Documents, sticky notes, and messy bulletin boards all informed our design which blends academic rigor with an entrepreneurial spirit. We wanted to capture the inquisitive passion propelling the human search for answers.

  • Logo
  • Identity System
  • Brand Strategy
  • Illustration
  • Motion
  • Art Direction
  • UX/UI Design
  • Web Development

The OpenResearch logomark symbolizes the diverse, multi-dimensional collection of sources that drive their highly collaborative research. Its upward tilt nods to OpenResearch’s optimism for the future.  

The typographic system takes cues from research papers of the past and present. When combined, National 2, Atlas Grotesk, and Atlas Typewriter feel bookish and contemporary, whether online or in print.

The color palette draws on a mix of muted and vibrant hues common in papers, inks and sticky notes. Colors like coral, ochre and honeydew imbue the brand with an exploratory feel consistent with OpenResearch’s work. Black and white bring a sense of rigor and seriousness.

To reflect their mixed-method research approach, we created analog-inspired collages that capture complex concepts. Duotone imagery, torn paper, and photography unite into iconic symbols that illustrate the learnings discovered in OpenResearch's work.

We also created a library of icons to add further dimension to OpenResearch’s storytelling. Each plays off the spirit of the brand’s logomark.

The website immerses visitors into OpenResearch’s full breadth of work, with a heavy focus on the whys and hows of their unconditional income study. Minimalist geometry and expressive colors give life to OpenResearch’s data-rich findings. It captures users at every stage of the story from big bold declarations to granular details. 

Every brand touchpoint serves as another opportunity to capitalize on the brand’s inquisitive spirit. As seen in swag, social posts, and various printed ephemera. Large headlines ask big questions. Books and journals invite audiences to ask questions of their own.

Team: Arsenii Vaselenko, Casey Martin, Chandler Reed, Chris Malven, David Schermer, Ellis Latham-Brown, Jackie McMahon, Jaime Patino-Calvo, Kelly Ma, Kelly Scheurich, Kyle Beck, Lindsay McMenamin, Marc Hill, Matthew Vlach, Michael Ryan Wood, Owen Cramp, Rocío Delgado, Rosie Bloom, Sammy Al-Asmar, Tina Cordes, Xiaoxue Meng

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