826 Bozeman

Winter 2025

Cold Case is a conceptual 826 storefront inspired by Bozeman, Montana, blending icy alpine exploration with local myths, cryptids, and scientific discovery. I developed the brand by researching regional culture, outdoor activities, and folklore, then translating those themes into a cohesive narrative centered on curiosity and investigation. Every design decision, from the name and visual language to the products and environments, supports the idea of writing as an expedition, encouraging students to explore, uncover, and document their own stories through play, mystery, and imagination.

The design process was highly iterative and exploration-driven. I began with extensive pencil sketches to experiment with visual motifs, layouts, and storytelling elements before refining ideas through digital sketching. Once the core assets were finalized, I applied them across multiple rounds of mockups—including packaging, merchandise, environmental graphics, and digital touchpoints—allowing the brand to evolve consistently across different contexts while maintaining a cohesive identity.



©MMXXIEthan Phail2025