We were invited to conceptualise a brand for a new cultural space—one that would host events, talks, and design-led exhibitions.

We proposed the name Gola.

Inspired by the popular Indian treat made by shaping crushed ice into a ball and dipping it in colourful syrups, Gola celebrates handcrafted expression, individuality, and sensory delight. No two golas are alike—each one invites experimentation, much like the space itself.

Engaging all five senses, gola exists in many cultures, yet the word holds deep nostalgic value in India, often tied to childhood memories. It is democratic, joyful, and accessible—enjoyed by all, made with minimal resources, and shared in solitude or in company.

The name reflects the ethos of the space: creative, inclusive, resourceful, and rooted in India.

Short, memorable, and easy to say—“See you at Gola”—the word has a soft, round sound that’s easy to recall and hard to mispronounce. It conveys freshness, warmth, and playfulness.

The space is called Gola, and visually represented as Gola House. The identity features a house symbol—a place of gathering, comfort, and openness. A recurring circle within this form extends into a graphic system, with its placement and repetition expressing various dimensions of the brand.

The name Gola was proposed by collaborator Matteo Guarnaccia.