Oranjeboomstraat 99,
4812 EB Breda (the Netherlands)
+31 (0)6 43 46 81 36
bart@3rd-floor.org
KvK Nr: 52232603
BTW-id: NL002482633B35
3rd Floor | Freelance graphic design, illustration & consultancy
A brand is only as strong as its weakest expression.
I help brands protect, refine and future-proof their visual identity across every touchpoint.
A strong visual identity is more than a logo or a campaign. Brands live across countless expressions on numerous platforms, created by different people, at different moments in time
In my role as a Brand-guard, I help brands ensure that all of these expressions come together as one cohesive, recognisable and future-proof identity.
If you’re unsure whether your brand still communicates with that level of clarity, a focused brand scan is often the best place to start.
Strong brands don’t fail, they erode over time.
A visual identity is never just a logo or a single campaign. It lives across multiple platforms in presentations, social media, packaging, advertising, internal document and so much more.
Over time, small inconsistencies creep in
- different interpretations of the same guidelines
- shortcuts under time pressure
- designs created by multiple parties without central direction
Inconsistencies are individually harmless but collectively damaging. Brand perception weakens not through mistakes, but through accumulation.
From designer to brand-guard
As a graphic designer and illustrator, I’ve spent years creating visual identities for many brands. But the real challenge begins after launch.
What does "brand-guarding" means?
- guarding visual consistency
- ensuring quality across all executions
- adapting a brand without diluting it
I act as an independent visual authority, not executing everything myself, but ensuring everything serves the brand.
What brand-guarding includes
Brand-guarding isn’t about controlling every detail, it’s about providing clarity, direction and continuity. In my role as a Brandguard, I offer independent visual oversight across all brand expressions, ensuring decisions are made with consistency, quality and long-term value in mind.
- guideline evaluation and refinement
- alignment with internal teams and external agencies
- early signaling of rebranding opportunities
Not reactive corrections, but proactive brand control.
This is for brands that:
- invest in long-term brand value
- work with multiple designers or agencies
- want clarity and consistency
- understand design as a strategic asset
This is not for:
- one-off projects
- purely execution-driven work
- brands unwilling to protect their identity
Limited availability by design
To ensure quality and deep brand understanding, I work with a limited number of brands simultaneously. Brand-guarding requires continuity, context and trust, which is why I only accept long-term collaborations.
Let’s make something great together.
From branding and packaging to campaigns; I help brands and agencies turn ideas into bold visual stories that stand out and connect. Got something in mind, or just curious to talk possibilities? Let’s connect; I’m always on the lookout for new collaborations and creative challenges.