One concept, endless possibilities: R&M on building identities through singular systematic thinking

In an industry often tempted by visual eclecticism, Brooklyn-based design studio R&M has built its reputation on a decidedly focused philosophy: find one strong concept and drive it through every element of a brand identity. Founded by longtime creative partners Ryan Bugden and Michelle Ando, the studio has carved out a distinctive niche crafting type-driven identity systems for small businesses across food and drink, fashion, arts and culture. Rather than mixing motifs to address different aspects of a design challenge, they shape everything – logo, graphic system, custom typography – around a single conceptual through-line. The result is work that feels both systematic and soulful, where custom type becomes not just decoration but the very backbone of each brand’s voice. From the angular intersections of Banker's Anchor to the floating letterforms of Oncept, their portfolio demonstrates how constraint can become the catalyst for truly memorable design. TBI: Hey Michelle and Ryan, how are you both? R&M: Great, thanks!