Friendly Foes
One of the key creative challenges was visualising how Tristel products eliminate viruses and germs without relying on overly scientific, microscopic, or unsettling imagery. Highly detailed, clinical accurate representations of germs and viruses risked distracting from the core message.
Our solution was to design a cast of simplified germ characters - friendly foes. Each design was subtly informed by the shapes, structures, and behaviours of real microbes, but intentionally abstracted. This allowed the threat to be communicated clearly, while keeping the visuals approachable, memorable, and easy to interpret.
By striking a balance between accuracy and accessibility, the characters helped audiences instantly grasp what the product was working against. The result was infection control storytelling that felt clear rather than clinical—reinforcing safety messaging without overwhelming or alienating the viewer.