URBANDALE FLAG

Flag with a white background, blue circles, and a red geometric design, flying outdoors against a clear blue sky.

Challenge

In 2024, Urbandale, Iowa proudly celebrated its centennial anniversary with a community-wide flag redesign competition. Residents of Urbandale and surrounding areas were invited to submit original designs that reflect the city’s heritage, pride, and forward momentum. The goal of this initiative was to create a flag that honors Urbandale’s past 100 years while representing its identity and aspirations for the future. Designers were encouraged to think creatively, using symbols, colors, and imagery that capture Urbandale’s journey and its vision for the next century.

Concepts

Over 100 sketches were created by hand before any digital work was made. Here are a few of those concepts.

After finalizing the most promising sketches, digital sketches were made to test and experiment how far each concept could be pushed.

Final Design

Urbandale, Iowa, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. Originally settled as a coal mining community, Urbandale saw significant growth in the early 20th century with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. The town's development was further spurred by the expansion of transportation networks, including the arrival of railroads and highways. In the 1950s, Urbandale transitioned from a rural area to a suburban community, experiencing a population boom. Today, it is a thriving suburb of Des Moines, known for its excellent schools, parks, and community amenities. The city's commitment to preserving its history is evident in the restoration of historic buildings and the establishment of local historical sites.

Two small flags with a logo of three interconnected red figures and two blue circles above each, crossed on a dark background, on a desk with stacked notebooks, a ruler, pens, and a marker.
A person walking a dog along a city sidewalk in front of a colorful mural with large blue circles and red zigzag shapes.