The Knowledge Vault

Behind the Screens: Redesigning the Cradle Coast Website with Jeffrey Studios

A year might seem like a long time for a website project, but when you’re tasked with bringing a large-scale platform like Cradle Coast to life, every moment counts. This wasn’t just any website redesign; it was a mission to create a digital space that reflects the beauty and diversity of the Cradle Coast region while delivering a user experience that’s as functional as it is stunning. At Jeffrey Studios, we rolled up our sleeves and got to work on what became one of our most rewarding projects to date.

The Scope: More Than Just a Pretty Interface
From the outset, it was clear this project was more than simply giving the Cradle Coast website a new look. With a complex set of requirements, including custom post types and advanced custom fields to deliver filterable libraries, the project demanded thoughtful planning and precise execution.

One of our main goals was to simplify the messaging and content across the site. The old version was rich with information, but it needed streamlining to ensure visitors could find what they needed without wading through unnecessary details.

To complement the messaging, we harnessed breathtaking photography from the talented Jess Bonde from Wild Bonde, a local photographer whose work captures the natural charm of the North-West Coast. These visuals became a cornerstone of the redesign, showcasing the region’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural richness.

Building Custom Solutions
Creating filterable libraries was one of the most complex aspects of the project. These aren’t your standard click-and-go features—they required advanced custom fields and custom post types, both tailored to meet the specific needs of Cradle Coast.

For example, we built a library to showcase key resources and projects. Each piece of content had to be carefully categorised to allow users to filter based on their preferences. Whether it was finding regional projects or accessing essential resources, the libraries were designed to make navigating the website intuitive and efficient.

Simplifying Without Losing Substance
Less is often more, but simplifying a large-scale website without sacrificing depth can be tricky. Our process involved thoughtful content audits and rewriting to distil key messages while preserving the core of Cradle Coast’s identity.

The result? Clearer navigation, concise messaging, and a site that feels accessible to a wide range of users, from tourists planning their trip to locals looking for community resources.

The Result: A User-Friendly, Beautifully Designed Website
After a year of collaboration, coding, and creativity, the new Cradle Coast Authority website is live and thriving. It’s a platform that not only informs but inspires, drawing visitors into the region’s charm while providing practical tools for exploration and connection.

This project was a true team effort, and we’re incredibly proud of the result. If you haven’t already, take a look at cradlecoast.com and see it for yourself.

Key Takeaways from the Project

  • Custom solutions are worth the time when they elevate user experience.
  • Simplifying content doesn’t mean losing depth; it’s about delivering the right message clearly.
  • Great photography isn’t just decorative—it’s storytelling in its own right.

Closing Thoughts
The Cradle Coast project was a labour of love, and we’re thrilled to have been part of it. At Jeffrey Studios, we believe in crafting websites that don’t just look good but work hard for their users—and this project is a testament to that philosophy.

Whether you’re looking to build a complex platform or refine your messaging, we’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Let’s chat about what’s next.