The Print Hall of Fame: Iconic Designs and Packaging That Changed the Game
- Szeyingg
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
In the world of design, print has long been a medium for capturing attention, conveying messages, and creating lasting impressions. Some print materials go far beyond their functional purpose and become iconic - setting trends, influencing entire industries, and leaving a legacy that endures for years, sometimes even decades.
Let’s take a stroll through the Print Hall of Fame, where legendary designs shine. These works not only represent the pinnacle of creativity but also showcase the power of print to shape culture and influence behaviour. From album covers to advertising campaigns, these masterpieces are proof of how design and print can make a lasting impact.
1. Apple’s Minimalist Packaging (1990s)
Apple revolutionised the tech world not just with its products but also with the art of packaging. The company introduced a fresh, minimalist approach that stood in stark contrast to the bulky, logo-heavy packaging of other tech brands. The famous iPod box design, with its clean white surface and simple, unassuming logo, showed the world that simplicity can sell. It wasn’t just packaging - it was an experience that felt as sleek as the product itself. Today, Apple’s minimalist design continues to influence everything from product packaging to web design, proving that less is more.
2. The "I ❤ NY" Logo (1977)
One of the simplest yet most powerful designs in the world is the iconic “I ❤️ NY” logo, created by designer Milton Glaser. Originally created to promote tourism in New York City, this logo transcended its original purpose and became a symbol of the city itself. The bold typography, combined with the heart symbol, instantly communicates warmth and emotion. It's a perfect example of how print design can create a deep connection between a brand (or city) and its audience, in a way that digital media often struggles to replicate.
3. The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" Album Cover (1967)
The Beatles are known for winning countless prestigious awards throughout their career, from Grammy Awards to Hall of Fame inductions. But you might be surprised to learn that one of their most famous accomplishments wasn't for their music but for their album cover design. The "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album cover, created by designers Peter Blake and Jann Haworth, won the Grammy Award for Best Album Package in 1968. The cover featured an intricate collage of celebrities, icons, and surreal elements that was groundbreaking at the time and reshaped what was possible in album artwork. Today, the iconic cover is still celebrated for its creative design, showing that print - can leave a long-lasting impression that goes far beyond just the content itself.
4. The "Keep Calm and Carry On" Poster (1939)
Though it was initially designed as a propaganda poster during World War II, the "Keep Calm and Carry On" poster has since become an enduring symbol of British resilience. Its bold typography and simple messaging encapsulate a spirit of stoicism that resonates with people even today. The design’s longevity is proof of how print materials can evolve and take on new meanings over time. In fact, it’s now one of the most parodied designs in modern pop culture, showing that simplicity, combined with powerful messaging, can create timeless appeal.
5. The Penguin Books Cover (1935-1960s)
The Penguin Books paperback covers revolutionised the publishing industry. During the 1930s, Penguin introduced affordable paperbacks that featured clean, uniform design with bold typography and distinct colour schemes for different genres. The designs were so striking that they made books stand out in stores, especially when most others were heavily ornate and cluttered. The minimalist style championed by Penguin’s design team has influenced book design and typography ever since, proving the immense power of typography and layout in print.
Final Thoughts: What Can We Learn from These Designs?
These iconic print materials show us that great print design isn’t just about looking good - it’s about making a statement. Whether it's Apple’s minimalist packaging, the bold typography of "Keep Calm and Carry On," or the timeless Penguin book covers, these designs share common characteristics that make them legendary:
Simplicity that speaks volumes
Bold typography that communicates a clear message
Colour choices that evoke emotions and capture attention
Consistency that builds brand identity over time
These iconic designs prove that print has immense power in shaping brands, cultures, and even social movements. Whether you’re designing product packaging, marketing materials, or even album art, there’s something to be learned from these print legends. Embrace creativity, boldness, and simplicity—because the right print design can truly change the game.
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