When people think of Wilson Design Associates, the first thing that usually comes to mind is brand identity. Logos, guidelines, brochures, websites – it’s what we’re known for. But did you know we also design magazines every single month?
That’s right. Alongside our brand and marketing projects, we’ve got a strong foothold in publishing too. We currently design two bi-monthly magazines for Machine Power Media, a Chichester-based publisher:
Plant Planet – covering the latest in construction plant and technology.
Demolition Spotlight – shining a light on the world of demolition.
And that’s not all. Andy also designs Vintage Spirit, a monthly title for Steam Heritage – another hat he wears alongside his work here at WDA.
Magazine design: a very different animal
Designing a magazine is nothing like creating a logo or a brand guide. Instead of starting from a blank page with a big vision, it’s about shaping and polishing what you’re given – articles, photos, captions, sometimes a few too many words!
It’s a balancing act:
- Making sure each article fits the right number of pages.
- Deciding which pictures deserve the big treatment and which ones need to stay small.
- Keeping the pace varied, so as you flick through, each spread feels fresh and engaging.
No two articles are the same, and that’s the beauty of it. Some pages tell their story with bold, dramatic images. Others need a tighter layout to keep dense copy readable. The goal? To create a magazine that flows – where every turn of the page draws you in to read more.
Why it matters
Magazines may feel “traditional” in a digital world, but they still have their place, the feel of flicking through a printed magazine cannot be replaced by an online flip book! They showcase expertise, highlight new products, and give readers something tangible to dive into. Good design makes that experience enjoyable. It’s not just about filling space – it’s about bringing order, rhythm and visual interest to every issue.
So yes, we’re brand specialists. But we’re also storytellers in print. Whether it’s a two-page spread or a 100-page magazine, the same principles apply: clear communication, strong design, and a finished product that does justice to the content.
Have a magazine or brochure you need designing... let's talk!
