Universe is a graphic and web design studio based in Toronto, Ontario, and the creative work of Elaine Stam. We specialize in all aspects of communication design, guided by modern best practices with a strong focus on accessibility, performance, and flexibility. Let’s create something amazing together.
The Universe Story
Universe Design Studio was officially founded in 2021. Its roots trace back to founder Elaine Stam’s decade-long career working within Toronto universities, where she developed a strong foundation in communication, accessibility, and inclusive design. Her experience in academic environments and independent study of accessibility principles inspired a design approach that’s thoughtful, user-centered, and purpose-driven.
Elaine has honed her expertise across multiple disciplines, with a particular focus (passion) on contemporary brand design, accessible design, report and publication design, search engine optimization (SEO), and custom WordPress development. These foundations now inform everything we do at Universe.
Today, Universe Design Studio collaborates primarily with Canadian think tanks, non-profits, academic departments, and universities — organizations that value clarity, strategy, and strong visual communication. That said, we’re always excited to connect with new clients who resonate with our aesthetic and share our appreciation for thoughtful, effective design.
Who we are
Elaine Stam
Owner + Creative Director
Elaine is the Owner and Creative Director at Universe, bringing over two decades of experience in design and development. With a background rooted in both art and technology, Elaine offers a rare blend of creative vision and technical expertise. As a designer first and a problem-solver always, she approaches every project with a contemporary eye and a strong commitment to accessible, high-performing design.
Known for her clean, modern aesthetic, fast turnarounds, and deep knowledge of accessibility standards, Elaine ensures every project she leads is thoughtful, inclusive, and built to last.
Before founding Universe, Elaine held senior design and web development roles at several major Toronto universities. You can learn more about her professional background and education on her LinkedIn profile.
Where we are
Our studio is in located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in the King West neighbourhood, near Liberty Village, Queen Street West, and Trinity Bellwoods.
Industries & Clients We Work With
We specialize in working with a diverse range of clients, including:
- Think Tanks
- Research Departments
- University & Education Support
- Public Policy Departments & Academics
- Survey Data Institutes
- Non-Profit Organizations
- Diversity & Future Skills Departments
- Canada Research Chairs
- Social Capital Groups
- Government Departments
- Law & Lawyers
- Healthcare Centres
We are an AODA compliant accessible graphic + web design studio
We have studied AODA compliance and accessibility in accordance with the Accessible Ontario Disabilities Act for over 10 years, always improving our practices and educating our clients of current best practices.
A high level of accessibility is applied to all of our projects, from report design to web design and development. When you have accessibility in mind from the beginning of a design, is not difficult to incorporate it effectively. Accessibility is an ethical best practice that Universe is proud to build into every project that we work on.
Our core values
Strategy
Before we design anything we strategize with you to understand your goals and how we can best communicate them.
Process
We have spent years studying efficient ways to collect and organize information to save you time and make your design project easy.
Simplicity
From websites to brand designs, our minimal aesthetic ensures your messaging is clear and concise.
Flexibility
Accessibility and sustainability are standard in our work. Your designs need to evolve with you over time and allow for all to view them with ease.
Support your local small business (us!)
We are a qualified Building Ontario Businesses Act (BOBIA) design studio
Need an Ontario graphic and web design studio? Universe Design Studio is a registered Ontario business and qualifies under the Ontario government’s Building Ontario Businesses Act (BOBIA). Our studio is located in Toronto, Ontario and the sole work of graphic designer Elaine Stam.
Ready to get started?
Get in touch if our work speaks to you and if we can help with your project.