Playing With Fire

When my brother-in-law – a longtime and passionate volunteer with the Cologne-Longerich Fire Department – asked me if I could design a new logo for his unit, I didn’t hesitate. There was no official briefing, no formal commission – just a family connection and a creative spark. And as often happens when I get going, what began as a simple favor quickly turned into a full visual concept.

Rather than just creating a single emblem, I started thinking bigger: What if this design could serve as a blueprint for other volunteer fire departments across Cologne? A flexible, modular system that celebrates local identity, yet still fits within the overarching brand structure of the city’s professional fire department. Because even though each volunteer unit has its own personality and story, there’s no question that the Berufsfeuerwehr – the professional fire service – stands above all. So I made sure the design aligned stylistically with the city’s official branding, while still giving it room to breathe.

For the Longerich unit, I also included the idea of a community-focused visual mark – something that could foster a sense of belonging, rooted in the neighborhood. I incorporated the number 85, their unit designation, and aimed for a visual language that was clean, strong, and grounded: something that communicates pride, reliability, and presence – both internally and to the wider community.

Unfortunately, the project couldn’t move forward. My brother-in-law later found out that, according to current policy, volunteer fire departments in Cologne aren’t allowed to have their own logos, as all branding is centrally managed by the city’s professional fire services. So for now, the work remains an unsolicited design study – heartfelt, thoughtful, but unofficial.

Still, I enjoyed the process. It reminded me that visual identity can do more than just decorate – it can build community, express local pride, and strengthen everyday connections. And who knows? Maybe one day this policy will change, and volunteer departments will be able to represent themselves visually within the city’s brand architecture. It would be a meaningful way to honor the local ties and commitment these volunteers embody every day.

And what do I take from this? Probably a simple but important lesson: that good design often starts with passion – but should always respect the official framework and approvals before leaping ahead.