Sxdesign · CLIENT: Nanpi Hardware
Nanpi Hardware is a brand identity created for a metalworking cluster in Nanpi County, Hebei, China. The mark combines a square and a circle drawn with tangent geometry. The resulting form reads as a gate and also as a target reticle, expressing focused precision. The positive space suggests the letter N, and a calibrated slit reveals the letter P in the negative space. A two parameter study generated 147 variants, each tested for clarity at 10 mm. The geometry also supports a three dimensional totem whose key views match the flat logo.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- A minimal square and circle construct forms a symbolic gate while suggesting the letter N in the positive space. A calibrated slit reveals the letter P in the negative space, forming the Nanpi initials. The mark also reads as a target reticle, expressing focused precision. Derived from the Turner cube, it supports a 3d totem whose key views align with the 2d logo.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Scalable vector, 1 to 1 square geometry, monochrome primary with optional single spot color. Minimum reproduction size 10 mm. Clear space at least the inner circle radius on all sides. 3d version based on a cube form, suitable for metal fabrication and desktop awards. Deliverables include vector, print ready, and manufacturing files.
- Tags
- Industrial identity, Precision machining, Turner cube, Geometric logo, Negative space lettering, Parametric design, Metal fabrication, City landmark, Collective trademark, Minimalism
- Production Technology
- The symbol was built from tangent geometry and tested through a two parameter matrix that generated 147 variants. Each variant was evaluated at 10 mm minimum size for legibility and balance. Vector masters and a strict grid ensure repeatability across media. A 3d model enables machining, casting, or anodized metal fabrication for awards, gifts, and landmarks.
- Design Challenge
- The hardest challenge was to honor Turner cube heritage while achieving a simple mark that stays clear at 10 mm. Another obstacle was embedding the letters N and P through positive and negative space without harming balance. The solution used strict tangency and calibrated gaps so 2d and 3d readings remain consistent.
- Project Duration
- The project started in September 2025 in Nanpi County, Hebei, China and finished in January 2026 in Beijing, China.
- Operation Flow
- In 2d, the mark serves as the collective trademark and anchors a modular identity system across print, signage, and digital media. In 3d, the form can be rotated so the top view reads as a Turner cube while the front view reads as the logo. This multi view consistency strengthens recognition from product markings to city landmarks and gifts.
- Research
- Type of Research field study, benchmarking. Research Objectives define a symbol for Nanpi metalworking. Methodology brand prism mapping, geometric coding. Data Collection and Research Tools Used visits, interviews, sample set, parametric matrix. Participants or Experiments manufacturers, officials. Results abstract direction confirmed, 2d 3d mark validated. Insights and Impacts memory anchor improves recognition and export communication. Effect supports unified cluster branding.
- Inspiration
- Nanpi County in Hebei is a dense metalworking cluster whose parts often stay hidden inside larger systems. The identity needed to show craft height at a glance and speak in a global industrial language. A Turner cube, a machining benchmark, inspired a door like mark that frames Nanpi as a gateway to the world.
- Image Credits
- sxdesign
- Patents
- sxdesign
Press releases are available in 1 languages.