Using icons
You see them. You use them. But do you notice them? Icons shape the way we navigate both the physical and digital worlds—from street signs to app interfaces. As modern life speeds up, they help us scan and decide in an instant.
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Branding
Icons aren’t just visuals—they’re brand superpowers. They grab attention, tell stories, and stick in people’s minds. Here’s why they’re a game-changer for any brand:
Instant recognition – One glance, and people know it’s you. No words needed.
Consistency everywhere – From apps to packaging, icons keep your brand looking unified.
Global language – Icons speak to everyone, no matter the language or culture.
Sticks in the mind – People remember images faster than text. Unique icons make your brand unforgettable.
Emotional impact – The right icons spark emotions and help shape how people feel about your brand.
Dancing Beans Coffee / Icons as visual language
Dancing Beans Coffee iconography by Pao Bassol
ODIDO / Icons reflecting the logo
ODIDO — Iconography System by Zach Roszczewski
Adidas / Icons aligned with logo angles
Adidas Runtastic icons by Carlotta Govi
Adidas Runtastic pictograms are designed to visually connect with the Adidas logo. Each pictogram presents 30° angles and depending on the icon metaphor, we use increments of 15° for other types of angles
Carlotta Govi — Icon Designer
Ragged Edge / Icons as branding elements
Brand identity for online travel agency First Choice created by Ragged Edge.
Vitra / Icon system for designer furnitures
[Pictogram] vitra by Sujeong Lee
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Product design
From car dashboards to rocket cockpits, icons are the silent heroes of product design. They guide, inform, and protect—without saying a word. Here’s why they’re more powerful than they look:
Instant clarity – One glance, and you know what a button does. No manual-flipping required.
Universal language – Good icons speak to everyone, no matter the language.
Speed & safety – When seconds count—like behind the wheel or in the air—icons help you react fast.
Space savers – Icons do more with less, keeping control panels sleek and simple.
Familiar vibes – Standard icons feel like old friends, making new devices feel intuitive.
Stick in your brain – Neuroscience says we remember images faster than text. Icons make sure key info sticks.
Crew Dragon / Icons for quick access
SpaceX - Crew Dragon Displays by Shane Mielke
Nespresso / Icons as ergonomic buttons
Nespresso icons by Forma & Co
Driving UX / Icons for physical and digital controls
Icons save space and make actions instantly clear on
car dashboards, screens, and buttons.
Scena / Icons as digital controls
Icons for Scena, a software for controlling spaces,
light and colour – By Forma & Co.
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Video games
Icons are inseparable from video games. They’re not just about looking cool—they make games easier to play and more intuitive:
- Quick info – When you’re in the middle of fast action, you don’t have time to read. Icons give instant info about health, ammo, or objectives.
- Universal understanding – Icons cross language barriers, which is key for global games.
- Better UX – Clean, consistent icons make the whole interface feel smoother and more intuitive.
- Adds to the vibe – In some games, icons even help build the world. Think of pixel art games where every icon adds to the retro feel.
Sony Playstation / Symbolic icons
Sony Playstation uses geometric icons shapes for universal recognition.
Photo by Michal Ilenda on Unsplash
The Sims / Icons as controls & mood signals
In The Sims, icons aren’t just for controls—they’re the characters’
playful language for sharing their moods and feelings.
Quake / Futuristic icons
Icons in Quake aren’t just functional—they add a vibrant, futuristic look,
instantly guiding players through intense gameplay moments.
Civilization VI / Icons for fast playing
