Unfolding Creativity: Where Architecture and Graphic Design Merge in a 4-Dimensional Business Card

Bjella Architecture refused to settle for the ordinary, even when it came to their business cards. Engaged in the creation of innovative three-dimensional houses, they pushed the boundaries further, transcending into the fourth dimension by incorporating time. The aim was clear: to immerse their recipients in an experiential journey akin to unwrapping a present, evoking positive emotions and a sense of discovery.

Beyond this, they aspired to encapsulate an entire brochure within the confines of a standard business card. Yet, this wasn’t enough; it had to be exceptionally memorable and unique, prompting recipients to preserve it for future reference.

Appropriately, the card adopts the shape of a simple, stylized modern house. To provide scale, an endearing dog peeks out of the front window. Yet, what truly beckons viewers are the layers of space visible through the window—an invitation to explore within.

Unfolding the card reveals an unexpected twist: the dog is now perched on its sibling’s head. “This invariably elicits a chuckle,” the architect remarks, “and helps break down the first contact barrier.” The playful gag establishes a ‘feel-good’ tone, signaling, “We are fun to work with and don’t take ourselves too seriously.”

After a swift exploration of the “home’s” interior, attention shifts to the company slogan: “We design art to live in.” This forges a connection between art and home design that most people seldom consider—art need not be limited to viewing but can be lived in. A thoughtfully designed home, after all, is a piece of art.

Continuing to unfold the card cleverly transforms the slogan to “We design cool houses across the United States,” accompanied by a list of the firm’s services. At the risk of overplaying the gag, another adorable puppy is introduced, this time bathed in warm sunlight as if recently thrown a bone (possibly a metaphor in there somewhere). The dog serves a dual purpose, infusing life into the interior and symbolizing the essence of home.

The decision to exclude furniture, paintings, flowers, or people, although considered, stems from a desire to maintain the abstractness of the design and avoid potential kitschiness.

As the final panel unfolds, the slogan metamorphoses once again to underscore the message that the company designs complete homes, inside and out. The viewer is left with a final message encapsulating the company ethos, courtesy of a poignant quote from Oscar Wilde: “I have the simplest of tastes. I am always satisfied with the best.”

In a departure from convention, providing contact information is secondary for this business card. The primary goal is fostering positive emotions about the firm and its capabilities. By prioritizing a memorable and engaging experience, Bjella Architecture has not just designed a business card but crafted a miniature journey, unfolding like the homes they envision. This unique approach not only showcases their creativity but seeks to leave a lasting impression, inviting potential clients to remember not just the services listed but the unique and creative spirit that defines their approach to architectural design.