Conqueror Sans: Handcrafted Branding for Hastings Castle Breaks Heritage Convention
Clare and Charlie Noon, designers based in St Leonards, have developed a fresh visual identity for Hastings Castle, one of the UK's oldest heritage sites, which is currently being revitalized with a new visitor center and restaurant. The branding incorporates a unique typeface, Conqueror Sans, drawing inspiration from the Bayeux Tapestry, featuring tall uppercase letters and bold serifs. Complementing this are rounded logotype forms. Instead of conventional heraldic symbols, the designers introduced hand-drawn creatures and a soft pastel color scheme. Additionally, “guerrilla-style” wayfinding signs made of Foamex are being put up. Collaborating with Troika Projects, the initiative seeks to transform the castle into a prominent ruin and a venue for multicultural events.
Key facts
- Clare and Charlie Noon designed the new branding for Hastings Castle.
- The custom headline typeface is named Conqueror Sans.
- Conqueror Sans is inspired by inscriptions from the Bayeux Tapestry.
- The identity uses folkloric, hand-drawn creatures instead of heraldic imagery.
- The color palette features soft pastel pinks, blues, yellows, and bright orange.
- The branding is part of the castle's regeneration including a new visitor centre and restaurant.
- The designers collaborated with Troika Projects on this project.
- Foamex 'guerrilla-style' wayfinding signs are being installed across the town.
Entities
Artists
- Clare Noon
- Charlie Noon
Institutions
- Hastings Castle
- Troika Projects
- Bunka restaurant
- Gala festival
- Accidental records
Locations
- Hastings Castle
- St Leonards
- United Kingdom