Mark Blackler
Founder, Designer
In their own words
By integrating this idea into the brand, we aimed to merge the past with the present – inviting patrons to embrace the allure of secrecy and the warmth of community.
By blending punk’s raw, do-it-yourself ethos with a sense of elegance and allure, we crafted an identity that feels both daring and sophisticated.
The torn page-like effect reflects punk culture’s raw, do-it-yourself ethos, symbolising defiance and anti-establishment.
I strongly believe that you’re forever learning.
One of the most important things is to know how much your time costs.
The font pairing is a stylistic choice to match the concept, recalling the links between the medieval and modern eras.
There is no relation to Bas&Chris’s work, although Chris is a bit older than Bas, so he could be the blackletter and Bas the sans serif.
two generations, two eras.
Articles & interviews3
- "Closed Bar's Evocative Identity: A Masterclass in Worldbuilding"
The article spotlights how by why’s brand identity for CLOSED bar, a new venue housed in an old steelworks, which draws inspiration from the idea of a 'Smuggler’s House.' Founder Mark Blackler blends punk’s rebellious energy with romantic sophistication to create a world rich in secrecy and community. The identity features distressed textures, layered collages, and inventive typography choices that reinforce the bar’s mysterious and evocative atmosphere.
- The Freelancers: Mark Blackler on settling into Sydney and finding personal satisfaction in his work
This interview from The Brand Identity’s 'The Freelancers' series features UK-born, Sydney-based designer Mark Blackler. He discusses his move to Australia, his transition into freelancing, and his philosophy of prioritising purpose and satisfaction in design. Blackler shares insights on organisation, work-life balance, and the importance of valuing one’s time as a freelancer.
- Bas&Chris identity blends blackletter with sans serif