Nantahala Outdoor Center
With over a million guests visiting annually and more than 120 different river and land-based itineraries, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is the nation’s largest outdoor recreation company.
Designed at 829 Studios in collaboration with the exceptional talents of Justin Vinalon (Design), Mae Beerman (Strategy and UX) and Nicole Redmond (Development).
Visual Design
Given full creative freedom, our team set out to amplify the NOC brand through visual design. Our objective was to craft an enticing design system for the new website, incorporating branded typography, iconography, layouts, textures, patterns, and more. Our aim was to communicate not just a sense of the outdoors, but also the essence of a high-quality, premium, leading brand.
Custom Iconography
In alignment with NOC's key value propositions, we created custom icons designed to evoke inspiration and spotlight the company's unique differentiators. By establishing a comprehensive style guide for crafting these bespoke icons, we ensured the development of a cohesive set that enhances the overall consistency and harmony of the NOC brand identity.
Strategy & Design System
NOC's goals for their new website were ambitious and comprehensive. We aimed to nurture leads throughout the customer lifecycle by implementing a trip planning tool that allows users to explore and compare various trips, lessons, accommodations, and dining options.
In addition, we enhanced the NOC experience by strategically implementing upselling and cross-selling techniques to inspire visitors with additional options and packages, further elevating their trip plans. Lastly, we amplified the NOC brand by effectively communicating their rich history, fostering trust, and building loyalty among their audience.
50th Anniversary Logo
NOC entrusted us with the task of creating a custom badge to commemorate their 50th Anniversary and honor the legacy of the brand. This unique badge adorned hundreds of merchandise items sold through NOC's various outfitter's stores and e-commerce platform, serving as a proud symbol of the company's milestone achievement.
