KOBU Agency Unveils New Identity for Faro’s Historic Centre

At KOBU Agency, we believe that strong places deserve strong identities. That’s exactly what guided us in developing the visual identity for “na baixa”, an initiative by the Associação do Comércio da Baixa de Faro.

Faro’s downtown is a unique territory, rich in heritage, filled with independent businesses, and energised by a growing cultural scene. Yet, its communication lacked a cohesive visual language capable of reflecting this diversity and vibrancy.

Building a System That Reflects Faro’s Identity

We set out to create more than a visual identity—we built a living system designed to evolve alongside Faro itself.

Rooted in the visual rhythm of calçada portuguesa, the concept draws from a shared cultural memory deeply embedded in Portugal’s streets. This reference anchors the identity in something familiar, while its execution brings a contemporary edge.

The system is defined by:

• Rounded, modular forms that echo the fluidity of urban space
• Bold, expressive typography that gives the district a confident voice
• A vibrant, flexible colour palette that shifts with context and mood

Together, these elements form a dynamic visual language: recognisable, adaptable, and ready to grow with the city!

Designing for Community and Visibility

Beyond concept, the system was designed to work in the real world: across platforms, audiences, and everyday use. Its organic shapes, strong typography, and vivid palette allow it to move seamlessly between themes, from heritage and local commerce to gastronomy, public space and cultural programming.

To support ongoing communication, we developed a suite of editable social media templates. This empowers the association to create content independently while preserving visual consistency, ensuring the identity remains both cohesive and alive in daily use.

“The challenge was to create an identity that could communicate with everyone—locals, visitors, and businesses—while positioning Baixa as a vibrant cultural and commercial destination.”

Marta Gouveia – KOBU Agency Creative Director

This initiative reflects a shared vision with the Associação do Comércio da Baixa de Faro: to transform the city’s downtown into an even stronger reference point for both the local community and those discovering the city.