© Johannes Ramírez, Galapagos National Park

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Galapagos Matters: A Bold New Look for Conservation Impact

Galapagos magazine before and after redesign

The Client

Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) is the only UK-registered charity dedicated exclusively to the conservation and sustainable development of the Galapagos Archipelago. Since its launch in 1995, GCT has been pivotal in delivering programmes that address gaps in scientific and socio-economic knowledge, funding local scientists, NGOs, and community groups, and partnering with Ecuadorian authorities to protect the unique wildlife of the Galapagos. The Trust also plays a crucial role in advocating for environmental change, amplifying local voices across the UK and beyond.

The Opportunity

As a key communication tool for GCT, Galapagos Matters serves to engage its audience, share critical conservation updates, and inspire action. A fresh, contemporary design was necessary to maintain the magazine’s relevance and effectiveness in a rapidly changing world, ensuring it could continue to support the Trust’s mission.

After more than a decade with the same design, the Galapagos Conservation Trust approached The Graphic Design House with a request to refresh their 28-page Galapagos Matters magazine. The magazine needed a redesign that would not only modernize its appearance but also enhance its structure and appeal to both existing and new readers.

Inside spread design for Galapagos matters

“The Graphic Design House are great to work with – flexible, efficient and quick to respond to any query – and they did a fantastic job on the recent re-design of our members’ magazine. Amy understood straight away what we trying to achieve, and she came up with a range of creative concepts which we were able to quickly refine. The whole process was smooth and stress-free, and we’re delighted with the end result.”

Tom O’Hara
Communications Manager
Galapagos Matters

Little vermilion flycatcher on Isabela © Tim Karels

Our Approach

Redesigning the Masthead: The masthead is the first thing readers see and is integral to the magazine’s identity. We modernized the masthead with a contemporary font, instantly refreshing the magazine’s overall look. This change was designed to make the publication more appealing and engaging, encouraging readers to delve deeper into its content.
Creating an Exciting Cover: The cover is a crucial element in attracting readers’ attention. We focused on making it visually striking and representative of the content within, using unique Galapagos photography and innovative typography. This approach was intended to create a sense of anticipation and excitement, making the magazine must-read.

Implementing a Gridded Structure Layout: A well-structured grid provides consistency and order, enhancing the readability and visual appeal of the magazine. We established a clear hierarchy using columns, margins, and gutters, guiding the reader’s eye seamlessly across the pages. This structured approach ensured a cohesive look throughout, making the content more accessible and enjoyable.

Adding Cut-Out Imagery: To add dynamism and visual interest, we incorporated cut-out imagery into the magazine’s design. This technique involves using images that appear to pop out of the page, often overlapping text and other elements to create a three-dimensional effect. This method was particularly effective for feature spreads, where large, eye-catching images could dominate the page and draw readers in, making the magazine feel more interactive and livelier.

These design choices were not just about aesthetics; they were about ensuring that the magazine could continue to captivate and engage its audience. By modernizing the design, we enhanced the magazine’s ability to communicate GCT’s mission, inspire action, and build a stronger connection with its readers.

Results

The redesigned Galapagos Matters magazine now boasts a refreshed, cleaner, and more structured look. The modernized masthead and exciting cover immediately grab attention, while the gridded layout and cut-out imagery provide a visually engaging and accessible reading experience. The updated design not only aligns with GCT’s brand but also reinvigorates the publication, making it more appealing to both long-time supporters and new audiences.

Next Steps

Following the successful redesign of Galapagos Matters, we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Galapagos Conservation Trust. Our next steps involve exploring additional ways to enhance the magazine’s digital presence and further integrating multimedia elements that complement the print publication, ensuring that GCT’s message reaches an even broader audience.