Our unveiling of our ‘Historically Hip’ new brand for Downtown Hammond, Louisiana
The Hammond Downtown Development District (DDD) completed an extensive rebranding effort, including a new logo and website. The rebrand signifies a strategic organizational shift to support destination marketing and economic development initiatives for Hammond, with the goal to further distinguish downtown has a thriving and innovative community rooted in sustainable growth.
“We believe Hammond is a place where dreams happen. Whether you are visiting, live, study or do business here, we want to ensure Hammond is simply a good place to be. This rebrand honors that history and progress can coexist, demonstrating a new era for Downtown Hammond. And it feels like we are just getting started,” said Michelle Kendall, DDD Executive Director.
The brand’s new look embraces Downtown Hammond as a ‘Historically Hip’ destination, paying homage to the area’s rich history while feeling approachable, heartfelt, playful, and authentically Hammond. Designed by Ale Now Design, new elements of Downtown Hammond’s brand include:
New Website: With a new domain of downtownhammondla.com, this new user-friendly site seamlessly allows for visitors, locals, and business owners to easily access information about Downtown Hammond. A major design consideration was to inspire visitors to consider Hammond for their travel and improve the hospitality experience of guests.
New Logo: The new logo takes a place-based approach to more effectively market Downtown Hammond as a destination. With a bold yet timeless font, the full logo incorporates a seal that acknowledges the year 1818, the year Hammond was officially settled by founder Peter Hammond, and the abbreviation ‘HMD’ as an ode to the shorthand of Hammond’s active Amtrak Station.
New Brand Marks: These complimentary graphics showcase beloved and iconic landmarks that help tell Hammond’s story including a hand-illustrated version of the Boos Building, one of Hammond’s oldest and most distinctive structures completed in 1898. Additional features include historic oak trees, an original ‘Downtown Hammond’ version of a railroad crossing sign, and a ‘Historically Hip’ seal that encapsulates the brand’s tagline.
New Brand Colors: The fresh color palette should look familiar to Hammond locals. Each color was intentionally sourced from historic buildings and the natural beauty that surrounds Downtown. Most notably are the contrast of the rich brick color, reminiscent of the historic brick buildings that define our cityscape, paired with the bright coral color that reflects downtown’s vibrant energy. Together, these colors effortlessly embody the historic and progressive spirit of Hammond.
“Taking charge of this initiative as a board member to ensure that, as a brand entity, Downtown Hammond is prepared to support the growth it will likely see in the coming decades, has been such a rewarding experience. What you’re seeing is a brand to be proud of, crafted with input from various talented dreamers and doers in our community. We hope it showcases a resounding sense of pride, and the affection that Hammond is worth it,” noted Kali Norton, DDD Board Member.
This rebrand further builds upon recent accolades and milestones for the area including national-recognition as a 2022 Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA) winner and celebration of the 40th Anniversary of its Main Street program that has attributed over $62 million in local investment, 250+ locally-owned businesses, and over 80 restored historic structures.
The updated brand can be explored on Downtown Hammond’s new website and updated social media platforms. Branded merchandise is available for online sale.
