Working in close partnership with National Biodiversity Data Centre and Jesmond Harding, we designed the Atlas of Butterflies in Ireland 2010 – 2021.
The Atlas of Butterflies in Ireland 2010–2021 presented a unique opportunity to create a design that balanced scientific accuracy with visual appeal. Our brief was to develop a graphic design system that could showcase complex ecological data while remaining engaging and accessible to a wide readership, from researchers and conservationists to members of the general public.
The visual language was inspired by the subject matter itself: the delicate yet vivid character of butterflies. A clean, contemporary layout was paired with vibrant accent colours drawn directly from species found in Ireland, creating a visual connection between design and content. These colours were carefully calibrated to work in both print and digital formats, ensuring accessibility and clarity when applied to charts, distribution maps, and species profiles.
Typography played an equally important role. A combination of a highly legible serif for body text and a modern sans serif for headings was selected to reinforce the balance between tradition and modernity. This allowed the atlas to communicate scientific rigour while maintaining a fresh, approachable visual language. Consistency across its 144 pages was achieved through a strong grid system, which created harmony between large data-driven visuals and more narrative sections.
Particular attention was given to the design of maps and infographics, which formed the backbone of the atlas. Distribution maps were refined to highlight subtle geographic variations without overwhelming the reader, using carefully chosen colour palettes and clear legends. Supporting icons and graphic motifs were designed to bring cohesion and guide navigation throughout the book.
The Atlas of Butterflies in Ireland 2010–2021 aimed to make data beautiful, approachable, and meaningful. It demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate scientific publishing, making critical biodiversity information both accessible and visually memorable.
