Banco Central do Brasil – What's the concept?

A look at the concept behind Aloísio Magalhães' 1975 logo for Banco Central do Brasil.

To coincide with the construction of a new headquarters, which would centralise the activities of 12 different sites throughout the capital, Banco Central do Brasil also sought out a new logo, engaging renowned designer Aloísio Magalhães to undertake the work.

Although, at the time of designing the logo, the building was just a model, Magalhães was inspired by the aerial view and the distinctive shadow that was created by the building’s form. This referenced the Dobrão, Brazil’s first currency, which was circulated between 1707 and 1750.

Architect Hélio Ferreira Pinto modified the ends of the Cruz de Cristo, which was engraved on the Dobrão and gave it a more squared finish, and from there came the footprint of the building which the extended upwards. This can also been seen in the logo.

As a final reference, a subtle plus sign can be seen within the logo. This was a subtle expression of wealth accumulation on the part of the bank’s clients. This connection between ancient currency, wealth accumulation and architecture saw the logo endure over time, and is currently still in use today.

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