Introducing a patient-centred, innovation-driven hospital
Following an approved merger between Grand River Hospital (GRH) and St. Mary’s General Hospital (SMGH) in Kitchener-Waterloo, both hospitals were tasked with coming together under a new name, brand, and website — and CT was put to the test in creating all three. Working with key audience groups representing both hospitals and spanning leadership teams; committees; community leaders; physicians, clinicians, and hospital team members, a variety of key themes and ideas around creativity, curiosity, and adaptability emerged — and so the name WRHN (short for Waterloo Regional Health Network) was born.
Inspired by the small yet mighty wren bird, WRHN is breaking down barriers, fostering connections, and redefining health care to build stronger, healthier communities. With this in mind, a brand identity centred around movement and momentum needed to take shape — and CT had to ensure it would build upon the strengths of both hospitals’ pasts while balancing the needs of an evolving health-care future.
Goals:
Develop a new name and brand that honours the shared history and individual strengths of GRH and SMGH respectively
Create a suite of branded assets, including stationery, signage, badges, lanyards, and banners, to reflect the brand and support implementation
Design and develop an accessible, scalable, and user-friendly website
A Colourful Look Takes Flight
WRHN’s brand includes a logo that features an abstract interpretation of a wren in flight, capturing its fluttering wings to symbolize the hospital’s commitment to progressive, patient-centred care. The brand’s primary colours — Wild Strawberry and Purple Abalone — are complemented by secondary tones of Sage and Indigo, evoking feelings of trust, growth, and stability while maintaining a modern edge. Earthy tones were pulled in to further ground the design, connecting it to the natural world.
A Soft Place to Land
Navigating health care can feel overwhelming, particularly during times of change. With this in mind, CT designed and developed a clear, intuitive website that puts people first—reducing friction, building confidence, and supporting users as they find their path to care.
Making It Easier to Get Care
Beyond essential patient information, the website brings together a filterable news and resources library, research and innovation content, and opportunities to volunteer or build a career with WRHN. Real-time emergency wait times are seamlessly integrated, ensuring the community can quickly access timely, relevant support — when and where it matters most.
Custom Pages for Unique Needs
Recognizing that health care journeys are not one-size-fits-all, CT created a searchable, filterable services hub that helps users find information tailored to their specific needs. A complementary Find a Location experience enables easy navigation across WRHN’s multiple campuses and service areas, helping users move from information to action with confidence.
