Campus Visual Standards

Consistent use of colors must be used to build awareness of and enthusiasm for the Minot State University identity. Standard wall paint colors include Pure White, Dover White, and Gauntlet Gray.

Natural wood, cement, and metal are allowed. Dark bronze (or black) may be used on door frames, metal heating elements, and touching up metal frames and railings.

Primary:

PURE WHITE
(Standard Wall Color)
Matching Paint: Sherwin Williams 7006 Extra White

DOVER WHITE
(Standard Wall Color)
Matching Paint: Sherwin Williams 6385 Dover White

GAUNTLET GRAY
(Accent or Neutral Tone)
CMYK: 11/1/0/64
Pantone: PMS 431
Matching Paint: Sherwin Williams 7019 Gauntlet Gray

Accent:

RED:
(School Spirit Color)
CMYK: 12/100/91/3
Pantone: PMS 186
Matching Paint: Sherwin Williams 6868 Real Red

Color selections for campus spaces should reflect and reinforce Minot State University's brand identity. The official MSU red (Pantone 186) should be thoughtfully integrated into interior design elements. It is recommended that this color be used as a bold accent within a neutral, timeless palette to maintain a cohesive and professional aesthetic.

Alternative shades, such as maroon or burgundy, are not considered suitable substitutes for MSU red. The use of dominant colors such as blues, purples, yellows, or greens is discouraged, as they may detract from the university’s visual identity. 

For any renovation or new construction projects where non-brand colors are being considered, please consult with Facilities Management and the Marketing Office prior to finalizing selections. All proposed color schemes must receive formal approval.

FURNITURE

• All new furniture purchases must reflect Minot State visual standards.
• Patterned fabrics must reflect the Minot State brand and be submitted to the Campus Visual Standards committee for review before purchase.

COMMON SPACE WALL DECOR

• All materials hung on bulletin boards must be stamped and approved by the Student Activities office (Leon Perzinski). 
• Hanging any flyers, posters, or other materials on walls is prohibited.

All campus building entrances have directories. When necessary, additional signage should be utilized to route guests through the building. Signs should be consistent throughout campus and created by the Minot State University Design and Print Services Office.

OFFICE SIGNS: Each office should be clearly identified with a Minot State branded sign.

ENTRY DOOR SIGNS: All permanent signage on entry door windows should be white lettering or follow the Minot State brand. This includes signage such as ADA Entrance and Tobacco Free Campus. When damaged, these signs should be replaced immediately. Temporary signage is not allowed on windows and doors unless to notify of a damaged door, last minute notification, etc.

OUTDOOR WAYFINDERS: All outdoor signage should follow the Minot State brand and be clearly visible for the intended audience: pedestrian or automobile. When departments move, signage should be updated within one month of the move completion.

The following items below may only be purchased through the facilities management office including items shown on architectural renderings and building plans.

WINDOW TREATMENTS: In most cases, the MSU standard window treatments will be roll blinds ordered through Facilities Management. All window treatments in a building should be the same to keep the exterior of the building cohesive.

CEILING TILES: In most cases, tagular smooth 2’ x 2’ square tiles will be used.

FLOORING: Contact Facilities Management to view available Minot State flooring options.

LIGHTING: LED lighting must be used throughout campus. If an area requires special lighting/circumstances, contact Facilities Management.

RESTROOMS: Restrooms should be simple and easy to clean. They must follow the primary campus color brand and have a timeless feel.

OUTDOOR DÉCOR: This includes all picnic tables, pole flags, plants, trees, etc.