Woodlawn Central
Woodlawn Central is a transformative $895 million development in Chicago’s historic Woodlawn neighborhood.
THE LAUNCH Playbook
visit website
Positioned between the University of Chicago and the forthcoming Obama Presidential Center, the initiative draws inspiration from the prosperity of historic Black economic hubs like Greenwood and Bronzeville. Its pillars span physical, digital, communications, and economic infrastructure — creating housing, commercial space for Black entrepreneurs, an arts district, and sustainable, energy-efficient design.
background:
The Challenge:
Woodlawn Central needed a brand and communications platform that reflected the scale of its ambition while staying true to its roots. The challenge was to present a complex, multi-phase development in a way that was accessible, inspiring, and consistent across audiences — from local residents to investors and media.
Solution:
We conducted a brand deep dive to capture the initiative’s values, vision, and multi-generational legacy. This informed positioning that communicates Woodlawn Central’s purpose with clarity and resonance.
brand strategy:
We designed a visual identity system that honors the project’s cultural roots while projecting innovation and forward momentum.
Brand Identity:
We created a polished website that tells the Woodlawn Central story, introduces the vision, and provides a digital home for ongoing updates.
Website Development:
Beyond the launch, we have continued to partner with Woodlawn Central by developing its marketing strategy, managing social media, and leading PR outreach.
ONGOING MARKETING:
We crafted messaging that translated a complex initiative into clear, inspiring language. The copy balanced legacy with future vision and gave Woodlawn Central a consistent voice across its website, social channels, and PR.
COPYWRITING:
The Result:
Woodlawn Central now has a brand and communications system that reflects both its legacy and its vision for the future. The initiative is positioned as more than a development; it is a blueprint for equitable urban growth led by the community itself. With ongoing support from SoCircle, Woodlawn Central is able to communicate consistently, attract reputable partners, and inspire residents to see themselves in the project.
after
before
Reviws
"Working with SoCircle has been one of the most seamless and powerful partnerships I’ve had. They don’t just execute, they elevate. From the branding to buildout, their ability to capture vision and translate it into strategy, visuals, and momentum is unmatched. Social Circle just gets it - culturally, creatively, and strategically. I trust them with my ideas because they show up like co-architects, not just a firm."
