5RB is a leading set of media and entertainment barristers. As a progressive chambers in a changing profession, the barristers recognised the necessity to develop a strong brand identity.

The law has to be 'black and white', with little opportunity to be interpreted otherwise. It was with this in mind that we began developing a small range of marketing materials and a new website for 5RB — all in monochrome. In contrast with other chambers turning to more exuberant marketing to win them business, 5RB began to feel increasingly comfortable with this straightforward black and white approach. Years later, the adherence to a 'no-nonsense' black-and-white brand identity has been a good investment. In this field, black and white is now synonymous with 5RB.

All the barristers were photographed in black and white. The style was relaxed, approachable and quite unlike the usual stiffly serious portraits of other chambers.

Legal representation rests on trust; handing over your case to a barrister is an anxious moment. Of course, 5RB barristers are accomplished and knowledgeable advocates so this should not in itself be the cause of any anxiety. Rather, it is the assignment of a case to someone you probably do not know that sometimes raises concern. Atelier stressed the importance of appearing approachable and personable if the chambers wanted to retain clients and secure new cases. To help with this, we designed new business cards, each with portraits on the reverse, for all barristers and clerks. Clients need to know (and to be able to picture in their minds) just who may be representing them.

Working in period buildings with a contemporary interior, the simplicity of the 5RB branding made it easy to develop architecturally sensitive sign solutions.

Great emphasis was placed on developing a very comprehensive website. Again, the design was deliberately kept simple and functional. And just in black and white.

Iain Nisbet, The Journal

But life can't be only serious. 5RB barristers also like to take their wigs off. Once a year they throw a summer party and invite all their clients... And to demonstrate their way with words, we play on legal terms for the invitation and event signs.

Related projects: CONFERENCE5RB , THE TENTH CONFERENCE5RB