Teran Design Lab

Trndl: Redefining Design for the Latin American Market

Trndl was born in 2021 out of a pursuit to create a fully transdisciplinary design studio. Inspired by the innovative ethos of Snøhetta, IDEO, and other global pioneers, we sought to bring this vision closer to the Latin American context. Our goal was not merely to emulate, but to reinterpret these ideas in Spanish, crafting solutions that bridge the gap between traditional design disciplines in Mexico—architecture, interiors, and industrial design—and the burgeoning digital fields such as UX/UI, marketing, ArchViz, BIM, and VDC.

What sets us apart is our user-centered approach. However, our focus is not solely on the end-user; we aim to empower the business user. This distinction is critical in a region where many professionals and entrepreneurs are unfamiliar with the methodologies and terminologies that could amplify their startups, businesses, or cultural initiatives. Often, design solutions in the current landscape remain siloed, limited by the boundaries of each discipline. This fragmented approach fails to address challenges holistically or in an omnichannel manner, leaving significant potential untapped.

The DNA of Trndl: A Laboratory for Innovation

When we completed our diploma in next-generation branding, it became evident that Trndl needed a rebrand—not just in terms of visuals, but in the very essence of how we approached our work. We transitioned from being seen as an agency to positioning ourselves as a design laboratory. Here, experimentation meets methodology, and every project we take on is a journey to connect our clients with their commercial goals while navigating the unique complexities of the Latin American market.

What’s in a Name? The Meaning Behind Trndl

The name Trndl carries intentional simplicity. Pronounced phonetically as “trrndl,” it reflects the studio’s minimalist ethos while remaining striking and memorable. The name itself is versatile and modern, adaptable to different contexts and languages, much like the transdisciplinary solutions we create.

As part of our brand activation, we integrated the tagline “Thinking Responsible Now”, a phrase that encapsulates the essence of Trndl. This tagline serves as a reminder of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and addressing challenges with a forward-thinking mindset. Whether it’s a brand strategy for a startup or a sustainable architectural design, “Thinking Responsible Now” is both a guiding principle and a call to action—for us and for our clients.

Branding: Simplicity, Functionality, and Environmental Responsibility

At Trndl, our branding embodies our core values of minimalism, functionality, and sustainability. We developed a simple, modular square logo that condenses the essence of what we do into its purest form. This geometric design is highly versatile, allowing seamless application across a wide range of mediums, from digital assets to physical materials.

Our design philosophy extends to the use of white backgrounds, which serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. White backgrounds make digital assets easier to load, store, and share, reflecting our commitment to efficiency in an increasingly digital-first world. For print applications, the focus on simplicity ensures that we can use plain paper and minimal materials, reducing waste and environmental impact.

Additionally, our logo’s form is optimized for modern fabrication techniques such as laser engraving, which not only enhances its tactile quality but also aligns with our eco-conscious principles. To break the monotony of monochromatic design, we introduced a clear-to-dark blue gradient applied in circular and linear forms. This gradient represents creativity, depth, and adaptability, injecting vibrancy into an otherwise minimalist brand identity. The interplay of simplicity and dynamism creates a cohesive visual ecosystem where less is more, requiring minimal resources and environmental impact.

Areas of Impact

Through careful research and reflection, we identified five core areas of impact that guide our work: Start-ups, Business, Cultural, Sustainability, and Innovation. Each area is an ecosystem that allows us to address challenges comprehensively and deliver transformative results:
1. Start-ups: We develop brand strategies and provide business guidance to help entrepreneurs position themselves and thrive in competitive markets.
2. Business: We craft growth and consolidation strategies, modernizing operations and elevating brand relevance.
3. Cultural: We collaborate with artists, cultural government agencies, and specialize in museography, as seen in projects with artists like Norberto Miranda.
4. Sustainability: As Minergie certification experts, we promote better practices consultancy and create energy-efficient designs that redefine environmental responsibility in Latin America.
5. Innovation: Acting as early adopters, we connect businesses with global innovators like Fich3D, AI solutions, NBS, and Autodesk, introducing new technologies to streamline Hispano-American business processes.

A Holistic Vision for Design

At Trndl, we believe in design as a force for transformation—one that transcends aesthetics to solve real-world problems. Whether it’s through minimal branding solutions, sustainable practices, or fostering technological adoption, we are committed to driving meaningful change in Latin America.

The simplicity of our name, the functionality of our logo, and the essence of “Thinking Responsible Now” unify everything we stand for. These elements not only represent Trndl’s approach but also invite others to join us in creating solutions that are thoughtful, innovative, and impactful.

Our journey is just beginning, but our vision remains clear: to redefine design as a tool for sustainability, innovation, and progress, one project at a time.