Room 276 Rebrands

Written by: Isabelle Peoples and V Perez

Ms. McGrath, a KCI teacher and head of the school’s Graphics program, is excited to unveil “276 Design House,” the Graphic Design room’s brand new look. Painting has currently happened, but more additions will be added as classes provide their input on how the room’s features should look. 

Now, with a cool blue color scheme (Pantone 276), its very own branding, and even future merchandise, the Graphics Department has been looking fresh lately. 

Naturally, such a change generates buzz around the school. What does this branding look like? What does it mean? After meeting with Ms. McGrath and students, The Edge has found answers to some of these questions.

In Ms. McGrath’s words, the rebrand is “comic-book stylesque.” It will include merchandise designed by students, such as stickers, t-shirts, a logo, and even plans for a mural across the classroom’s doors. Ms. McGrath mentioned that the idea is to create a “homey, safe space” for students to work in and fuel their inspiration, with the bonus of giving the room its own distinctive identity.

An important fact to note is that the rebranding and merchandise is, and will be, created by students in the Graphic Design course.

Ms. McGrath described the 276 Design House’s goal as giving a voice to students and letting them showcase what Graphic Design means to them. This also gives students an overall focus for their efforts in class. With this rebrand, it will hopefully bring more recognition to the Graphics Department, and to people looking for an arts credit that is more computer-focused and freeing.  

In order to see just how these changes have impacted the student body, The Edge visited two grade twelve graphic design students, Natalia Spencer and Kar Gies, to get their opinions. 

“I think it’s just more fun, because that’s what graphics design is, it’s fun!” said Kar Gies. Whilst having concerns about the branding feeling too “corporate,” mostly in terms of merchandising, Kar and Natalia praise the rebrand for its use of student involvement.

If you are interested in computers, a different way to attain your art credit, and would like to join a classroom that is innovative and creative, consider joining the 276 Design House.