How to name your projects

This exercise will help you name your design projects as a cohesive collection that reflects your brand identity and appeals to your ideal clients.

First, consider the following 5 ways to name your projects

Location-Based Naming

Names based on the location of the project

Examples: Maplewood Residence, Oak Street Loft, The Parkview Retreat

Format: [Location Name] + [Type of Space or Design Concept]

Options: neighborhood, street, or region

Considerations:

  • Signals a strong connection to a specific area, showcasing your expertise in that region.

  • Do you want to position yourself as a regional expert, or would you prefer to appeal to clients outside of a specific location?

  • Are your ideal clients drawn to the unique charm of specific neighborhoods or regions?

Descriptive Naming

Names based on a prominent design feature or style element that defines the project

Examples: The Coastal Escape, The Luxe Loft, Urban Industrial Studio

Format: [Design Element/Feature] + [Type of Space or Location]

Options: color scheme, texture, or aesthetic theme

Considerations:

  • Effective for designers who have a distinct design language or signature style.

  • Appeals to clients who are drawn to a specific style or trend (e.g., coastal, modern, industrial).

  • Does your work frequently feature specific design elements that your ideal clients identify with?

  • Would clients who are seeking particular design aesthetics be drawn to names that clearly describe those elements?

Abstract or Conceptual Naming

Names based on an abstract concept or emotional resonance

Examples: The Horizon, The Solstice, The Tranquil Project

Format: [Evocative Word or Concept]

Options: a word or phrase that conveys the feeling or mood of the project

Considerations:

  • Can communicate a high-end, artistic, or visionary approach to design.

  • Do your ideal clients value creativity and conceptual design?

  • Is your design work often more about mood and atmosphere than specific aesthetics?

Client-Based Naming

Use of the client’s name or initials in the project title

Examples: The Williams Family Residence, The Garcia Retreat

Format: [Client Name] + [Design Concept/Type of Space]

Considerations:

  • Emphasizes personalized, bespoke design services.

  • Signals that you work closely with clients and provide individual attention.

  • Do you want to highlight the personal relationships you build with your clients?

  • Would your clients be comfortable with their names being used?

Nature-Inspired Naming

Names drawn from natural elements

Examples: Redwood Villa, The Maple Grove Residence, The Oceanview Retreat

Format: [Nature Element/Phenomenon] + [Space Type]

Options: flora, fauna, or geographic features, reflecting a connection to nature and sustainability

Considerations:

  • Ideal for designers who emphasize eco-conscious or biophilic design principles.

  • Do your ideal clients value eco-conscious design or natural aesthetics?

  • Would a nature-based name help to highlight your commitment to sustainability or organic materials?

Now, it’s time to name the projects in your portfolio

  1. Brainstorm names for each project:
    Write down potential names based on your chosen naming convention.

  2. Ensure consistency:
    Review all names to ensure they follow the same format and feel cohesive as a collection.

  3. Evaluate your portfolio as a whole:
    Step back and look at your portfolio of names. Do they feel unified? Is there a clear connection between the names that reflects your design philosophy and resonates with your target clients?

Congratulations

You have finished naming your design projects. You should now continue the questionnaire that led you to this page.

Or, if you feel stuck, please reach out to us for further guidance.