I have this thing: an uncontrollable need to scan my surroundings, assessing the logos I see on signage, menus, storefronts, POS displays. I mean truly, it’s a problem. I’d seek help, but I’m sure I’d even assess the doctor’s clinic logo.

The beauty of this problem, however, is that I see so many amazing logos that jump out at me and stick in my brain. Now THIS is the true purpose of a logo, a part of what makes a customer remember you.

What makes these logos memorable?
Parts of a memorable logo are color, unique icons, and sometimes the lettering depending on how unique. But the most important aspect is cleverness. Some of these clever logos are just really cool.

Here are a few examples of what I mean by cleverness. I’ve seen these throughout the internet and around the real world:

1. Yoga Australia

Look closely. It’s a woman doing yoga, yes, but check out the space inside her arm and bent leg. It forms the shape of Australia.

2. Elefont

Is it an “e”? Is it an elephant’s trunk? It’s both! Negative space is prime real estate in the logo design business.

3. Food Writers

More negative space: a spoon forming the inkwell within a fountain pen.

4. London Symphony Orchestra

This is one of my favorites. A graceful swoosh is a combination of the initials of this organization, formed seemingly by the fluid movements of a conductor.

5. Handydog

Now this one looks like it was fun to create. A classic use of hand shadows.

6. Alberta Land Trust Alliance

An organization dedicated to environmental conservation, this bird icon was formed out of water, land and trees. Can you see it? (Designed by Jenn Garman for Urban Creative Co.)

7. Australian Pork

Another from Australia. The pig snout forms the shape of the continent.

Conclusion
A logo doesn’t need to be simply an icon and good lettering, or even the right set of colors. Finding some clever twist that makes your logo as unique as your company can be incredibly fun, and also make people remember it well after they’ve seen it.

Do you have a clever logo, or have you seen one that you found particularly memorable? Tell us about it; make a comment below!