Commodore Builders
January - August 2024.
This past year, I wrapped up my first co-op as graphic designer with Commodore Builders’ marketing team. My primary role was developing and implementing a new, revitalized brand identity for the company. This consisted of redesigning project proposals, internal communications, physical and digital presentations, as well as other supplementary marketing materials. As the company’s sole graphic designer, I had the opportunity to build this new visual identity from the ground up, with the goal to increase client engagement and improve brand image.
Proposal Layouts.
I led the development of new proposal and qualification package layouts, creating a master template that proposal managers could easily customize. Over eight months, I continuously refined this template based on feedback, producing over 30 unique packages—roughly one per week.
One of the most impactful design changes was swapping the brand’s primary and secondary colors, replacing outdated navy blocks with a modern, vibrant orange. This refresh gave marketing materials a more contemporary feel. I also prioritized imagery over dense text, making lengthy (100+ page) documents more engaging, digestible, and visually compelling.
Additionally, I optimized layouts, margins, and formatting for both on-screen and print viewing, ensuring proposal managers could seamlessly adapt content without reformatting.
Check out highlights from the master below.
Flip Books.
I spearheaded the creation of image-based, perfect-bound flip books to showcase top project photos, key stats, and client quotes. Designed as coffee table-style books, they stood out from the typical marketing materials clients receive daily. Since the company had never produced anything like this before, I developed them from scratch with input from various departments.
The flipbook shown below was tailored for academic and institutional groups, featuring imagery of student life, labs, learning spaces, and athletics. I also created a version for public sector clients, highlighting fire and police stations, public schools, and infrastructure projects.
Beyond client handouts, we launched a marketing campaign mailing these books to prospective clients, each with a handwritten note for a personal touch.
Check out the institutional flip book below.
What else?
Beyond these key projects, my role encompassed a wide range of marketing initiatives. I collaborated with the communications manager to create social media posts and advertisements, while also assisting with event photography to support these efforts.
I dedicated significant time to designing slide deck presentations for both internal and external use. For client interviews, I worked closely with attending teams to refine messaging, ensuring presentations were clear, visually engaging, and aligned with their talking points.
Additionally, I managed site signage, coordinating with contractors, architects, project managers, and clients to ensure accurate public communication—critical for community awareness and safety in active construction zones.
