We believe that brands are much more than logos or packaging. They are ideas, emotions, and experiences in people's minds. Our motivation is to make these ideas clear, consistent, and vivid. So that brands remain memorable rather than interchangeable.

Our studio

Hi, we are echd – a full-service agency for authentic brand communication. Founded in 1977 with a focus on brand and packaging design, we now provide our clients with cross-media support and create comprehensive brand experiences. We think holistically and lead brands to success – from strategic consulting and innovative design solutions to high-impact communication.

Our managing directors:
Nadine Hartmann & Paul Valentiner

How we work

Der echd Jutebeutel vor einer roten Backsteinwand

We believe that brands exist as ideas in people's minds. That's why we translate the brand essence into a consistent experience — from paper to shelf, from initial concept to social media campaign. Our principle: everything from one hand — with clarity, openness, and authenticity.

Our agency was founded in 1977 by Knut Hartmann. Thanks to our many years of experience as one of the first packaging agencies in Germany, customers can rely on our expertise and diverse know-how.

Our core values impact how we do things. They shape our systems and processes, but also our culture.

  • Holistic

    We develop strategies, create design solutions, and support their implementation in such a way that everything comes together to create a distinct and vibrant brand experience. This ensures that a brand remains both authentic and tangible throughout every touchpoint.

  • Open minded

    We listen, ask questions, and identify trends early on—so that we can develop brands that remain alive and relevant not only today, but also tomorrow.

  • Authentic

    We help our customers find their true identity—and communicate it so clearly and consistently that it sticks in people's heads. The same applies internally: we remain genuine-in our attitude, in our partnerships, and in our behavior every day.

in focus

Today, brands need more than just good design. They need to reach people, trigger emotions, and have a consistent impact across all channels. With our focus areas, we achieve exactly that: solutions that go far beyond traditional agency services and make brands visible, tangible, and experiential in the everyday lives of their customers.

Knut Hartmann Design

Since its founding in 1977, Knut Hartmann led our agency for around 40 years and was always considered a pioneer in brand, product, and packaging design. khdesign was one of the first specialized brand and packaging design agencies in Germany. His strong will, creativity, visionary thinking, and above all his love of design drove him throughout his life. His ingenuity and extraordinary personality are an inspiration—then as now.

Hey, want to get to know each other a bit?

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