Generating A Powerhouse of People for Riverside Works, Bakewell.
Home to Thornbridge Brewery, Chatsworth retail, Trek and more, Riverside Works is a thriving live, work, play development alongside the River Wye, a stone’s throw from Bakewell town centre. Our brand-led approach restored an old name, powered a communications strategy and shaped a destination.
Litton Properties commissioned Cafeteria to look at brand and comms for the development, having recognised that its corporate image no longer reflected their vision for the 225,000 square foot site. The removal of outdated infrastructure and restoration of historical landmarks paved the way for solar-powered, modular units fit for fast-growing local businesses and national brands alike. A smarter, more sustainable future.
Project research uncovered that the site had been home to game-changing entrepreneurship since 1777, when Joseph Arkwright changed the course of the river to introduce a wheel to power his cotton mill — Riverside Works. This generated the first chapter in a long story of people-powered change for the economic and social benefit of the surrounding region.
Reviving the original name was the way to go. It conveyed the character and buzz of this place far better than ‘Business Park’ ever could. This underpinned our brand framework and comms strategy, and drove our Big Idea – A Powerhouse of People. By framing the Works as greater than the sum of its parts, we instil the confidence of community, encourage the exchange of ideas for collective success, and deliver a banner for everyone to rally to. The name change also inspired campaign messages — simple word plays that encapsulate the spirit of this place.
The new visual identity nods to the Works’ heritage, while appealing to the wide range of progressive businesses that Litton seeks to attract and support in this location. It also, through colour, type and photography, sits comfortably in the surrounding natural environment of the Peak District National Park.
Our partnership with Litton at Riverside Works continues, with an extended website, wayfinding system and feature signage all in the pipeline for 2024.
