How we work
From creative city maps to interactive tourist trails, campus maps and events
Illustrated maps can capture the essence and personality of a place, embodying its character and charm in a visually captivating way. At Root Studio, we have a great deal of experience in map-making and understand the value of these maps in communicating the unique personality of a town, city or attraction.
Commissioning an illustrated map
It all starts with a chat. In the first instance, we’ll look to understand the scale of the area, the number of focal points, your preferred style and the intended application before sharing an estimate for your consideration.
Storytelling through your map
An illustrated map is a great opportunity to transport its users into your own curated world. At the early stages of the design process, we'll consider the narrative you’d like to tell and how this could be achieved or supported within the map design.
We'll consider adding characters performing local activities, depicting local celebrities or folklore or including pull-out illustrations of local delicacies to inject life into your creation and to support your narrative.
The creative process
With a style identified we’ll typically kick off with a sketch-phase which will be shared with you as a black and white drawing for review. Following this, we’ll develop your preferred design until you’re happy with the finished map.
During the process, we'll ensure that any brand elements such as a specific colour palette, brand fonts and the inclusion of various funder/supporter logos are included within the design for project consistency.
Scaling and editability
As we craft your map, we'll keep scalability and editability in mind. Your map will be produced as a vector graphic for instance, meaning that it will seamlessly adapt to different sizes and mediums without compromising on quality.
Examples of our work
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I find them to be very helpful and communication is great. They also work quickly
A creative resource we have on tap that never lets us down and always delivers excellent results
We can’t recommend Root Studio enough!
Working with Root Studio has been nothing but a pleasure
Super responsive and never fail to meet, and exceed our needs and expectations
Can’t fault them for their professionalism, creativity and delivery
Fantastic company! Highly recommended!
Always produce high quality creative design work
Insights
Illustrated maps can capture the essence and personality of a place, embodying its character and charm in a visually captivating way. In this article, we'll delve into the many considerations that you and your designer should make whilst crafting your illustrated visitor map.
In recent months we've been working with the Lincoln College team behind the scenes at the development of their groundbreaking ASI campus in Newark to develop a cohesive and innovative collection of signage and wayfinding graphics for students, visitors and staff of the site.
Which is right for your next marketing campaign? We've shed light on the benefits of each route to help you make an informed decision.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a map illustration cost?
The fees for an illustration vary depending on your chosen style, the complexity of the design and the intended final usage. Please get in touch for an estimate and we’ll be happy to discuss ballparks.
How many revisions are included?
Up to three rounds of revisions as standard within our design contracts. Additional changes after this point are evaluated and estimated based on their complexity (we will never charge you extra without permission).
Who owns the IP to my illustration once completed?
For illustrations, you will own the IP to the artwork once the final bill has been cleared. However, you will only have the rights to use the artwork as originally intended (as per our terms and conditions) - if you would like the ability to use the illustration for other purposes or to sell the artwork then please contact the studio for an estimate to be granted unlimited artwork rights.
How long does the design process take?
Timeframes can vary from project to project but as a rough guide the process typically takes between 3-5 weeks from brief to completion depending on the complexity of the artwork.
I am outside of the UK, how would this work?
No problem, we have many overseas clients and meet regularly via video call. All estimates and bills are provided in GBP and can be paid via bank transfer or credit card.
How do you bill for a project?
After a design contract has been agreed we will send over a deposit invoice for between 25-50% of the project fee (subject to requirements). The remaining balance will be billed upon completion with our standard 30 day payment terms.
Got a question?
Please feel free to get in touch, we’d love to hear about your business and are always happy to help.