Election Show – WERKSTATT

Overview
During Germany’s federal and state elections, the German public boadcasting ARD and it's flagship channel Das Erste needed a refreshed on-air design and studio design package for their election coverage, a visual identity that communicates authority, clarity, and urgency.

Concept
The design uses bold, dynamic shapes and a reduced color palette of red, blue, and white to reflect the political spectrum. It’s structured and clear, while remaining accessible and engaging for a broad audience.

Execution
As Art Director at DMC Group, I led the full visual development, from initial concept to final delivery. This included setting the design direction for the in-studio setup, working closely with the team on-site at ARD’s Berlin studio, and handing over a detailed design guide to ensure consistent implementation across editorial and production teams. Deliverables included title sequences, lower thirds, infographics, and modular elements for live use.

I traveled with the client from ARD to the studio in Cologne to support the team during the implementation of the new on-air and studio design. I ensured that the studio wall prints and graphic elements were used correctly and aligned with the overall design system. On-site, I guided the technicians and production staff to apply the visual identity consistently across all elements.

Impact
The new design gave Das Erste’s election coverage a bold, cohesive look and feel. It supported national and regional broadcasts and helped millions of viewers follow results in real time. The design guide ensured long-term consistency across future productions.

Wahlen im Ersten
Election Coverage

Project
Broadcast Design

Role
Art Director (Agency Side)

Agency
DMC Group, Munich, Germany

Client
ARD Design & Presentation