studio1500 was founded in 2007 by Erik Schmitt and Julio Martínez Villeda, two former Pentagram designers. We are an independent design studio building long-term client relationships and developing thoughtful solutions that endure and evolve over time. We address complex challenges by developing design systems that bring clarity and resonance across platforms.

Process
Our process is grounded in iteration. We listen carefully to the problems at hand, and then we explore broadly to arrive at a wide range of options. 

Approach
Our core team—comprised of the partners—is personally engaged in all aspects of the work, from the top-level creative direction down to production details. Our scale is intentional. It allows us to focus on non-profits, civic institutions, and arts organizations—clients whose efforts align with our aims of using design to help enrich culture, foster education, and explore the role of designers as citizens.

Focus
Our work centers on visual brand development and the design of communication systems for institutions whose efforts shape public life. Our work often extends across print, digital, and physical environments. When projects expand, we collaborate with long-standing partners selected specifically for their expertise.

studio1500 works directly with clients. We do not respond to acquisition proposals or third-party solicitations.

©2026 studio1500, LLC 
San Francisco, California
Typeface:  Söhne