FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does a branding studio actually do?

A branding studio defines how a business positions itself and how it is expressed visually and verbally. This includes brand strategy, messaging, logo design, visual identity systems, packaging and digital rollout. At PERKS, branding begins with strategic foundations before moving into creative development.

What is included in a brand identity?

A brand identity typically includes logo suite design, typography, colour systems, art direction, brand guidelines and visual language rules. Depending on the brief, it may also include packaging, website design and collateral. Each identity is built as a flexible system rather than a standalone logo.

How much does branding cost in New Zealand?

Branding investment varies depending on scope, scale and complexity. A strategic brand identity project typically reflects the level of research, thinking and application required. At PERKS, each project is quoted individually following a discovery conversation to ensure alignment between ambition and budget.

How long does a branding project take?

Most brand identity projects take between 6 and 12 weeks, depending on scope. Projects that include strategy, packaging or website design will extend beyond this timeframe. We begin with a strategic definition before moving into creative development and rollout.

What is the difference between brand strategy and brand identity?

Brand strategy defines positioning, sets the foundations, messaging and direction. Brand identity translates that strategy into visual form. Strategy provides clarity. Identity provides expression. Both are essential to building a coherent brand.

Do you only work with Auckland businesses?

PERKS is based in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, and works with clients throughout New Zealand and internationally. Location does not limit collaboration. We regularly work with founders and teams across different regions and time zones.

Do you work with startups or established businesses?

We work with both. Some clients are building from the ground up. Others are repositioning after years in the market. What matters most is clarity of ambition and a commitment to building something considered and enduring.

What industries do you work with?

We work across commercial, retail, professional services and the arts, with a particular depth in architecture, design and property. This includes architecture and interior practices, furniture makers and designers, built environment consultancies and commercial and residential property developers. Each brief is approached on its own terms, whatever the sector.

Do you work with architecture and interior design practices?

Yes. We work with architecture, interior and landscape practices to build brands that sit comfortably beside the work and let it lead. Recent projects include Elmore Booth and ahha Architects. We understand the audiences these practices speak to, from private clients to developers and specifiers.

Do you work with furniture makers and commercial furniture suppliers?

Yes. We work with furniture, lighting and object designers, as well as commercial suppliers selling into architects, interior designers and fit-out teams. Our work for Atelier Jones, an Auckland studio creating furniture, objects and spaces, is one example. Projects often extend into catalogues, spec sheets, showroom and trade show graphics.

Do you work with property developers?

Yes. We work with commercial and residential developers on both the developer brand and the identity of individual developments. Our work for Loom Partners spanned brand identity, collateral and investor decks. We also offer and end to end service for commercial and residential developments, including branding, marketing touchpoints, site hoardings, signage and project websites.

Do you work with galleries and arts organisations?

Yes. We design identities, exhibition graphics, wayfinding and campaigns for galleries, institutions, festivals and arts organisations. An arts identity needs to be flexible enough to support a changing programme without overpowering the work. We also build systems that in-house teams can run with confidence.

Do you offer print, packaging and website design?

Yes. Print design, packaging design and digital expression are often part of a broader brand identity system. This will ensure that every physical and digital touchpoint feels aligned and intentional.

Do you design signage, wayfinding and environmental graphics?

Yes. Environmental graphics, signage, wayfinding and exhibition design are part of our spatial practice. These touchpoints are often where a brand is experienced most directly, particularly in architecture, property, hospitality and the arts. We design with materiality and fabrication in mind from the outset.How is PERKS different from a large branding agency?

PERKS operates as an independent studio led directly by its founder, Ella. Every project is personally directed, with curated collaborators brought in as needed. This allows for a highly considered approach without unnecessary layers.

How do I know if I’m ready to invest in branding?

Businesses are typically ready when they are entering a new phase of growth, repositioning in market or seeking greater clarity in how they communicate. If your brand no longer reflects your ambition, it may be time to redefine it.