- Client:
- QT Hotels & Resorts
- Services:
- Brand Identity
- Art Creation
- Print Application
Context & ChallengeEsther is a high end restaurant on the ground level of QT Auckland, which we were asked to brand whilst the hotel was in its inception. Being a hotel restaurant, an independent brand was the best route in order to establish an independent hub for guests and locals alike. However, being fluidly connected to the hotel space, the independent brand needed to seamlessly connect to the hotel’s foreshore concept. Chef Sean Connolly, one of Australia and New Zealand’s most beloved chefs and restaurateurs, was appointed to run the restaurant. He envisioned a Mediterranean restaurant that champions seafood and seasonal produce.
Context & ChallengeEsther is a high end restaurant on the ground level of QT Auckland, which we were asked to brand whilst the hotel was in its inception. Being a hotel restaurant, an independent brand was the best route in order to establish an independent hub for guests and locals alike. However, being fluidly connected to the hotel space, the independent brand needed to seamlessly connect to the hotel’s foreshore concept. Chef Sean Connolly, one of Australia and New Zealand’s most beloved chefs and restaurateurs, was appointed to run the restaurant. He envisioned a Mediterranean restaurant that champions seafood and seasonal produce.
A Team ApproachWith a stellar team of experts in their own field, we knew we had to align the existing creative visions for interior and F&B into one over-arching direction. A celebration of Mediterranean food and culture – of travels that chase the food of the sun – became the creative mantra that aligned all parts of the brand experience.
Our Brand MuseEsther is the soulful modern food nomad personified. Mirroring the food concept, she is authentic, full of character, humble, charming, lively, and a free spirit. She is the simple sophistication of a wood fired crayfish, served with a dash of lemon on a hand-made ceramic plate, in the warm company of friends.
A Visual NarrativeExtending from Esther the name and brand muse, the visual identity describes the personal traces and stories of her food travels. Put in the language of a travel diary, flowing food illustrations, personal marks and notes add warm and memorable touches to the collateral. Neutral tonality and rich print textures support the idea of an eclectic but refined experience.
A Team ApproachWith a stellar team of experts in their own field, we knew we had to align the existing creative visions for interior and F&B into one over-arching direction. A celebration of Mediterranean food and culture – of travels that chase the food of the sun – became the creative mantra that aligned all parts of the brand experience.
Our Brand MuseEsther is the soulful modern food nomad personified. Mirroring the food concept, she is authentic, full of character, humble, charming, lively, and a free spirit. She is the simple sophistication of a wood fired crayfish, served with a dash of lemon on a hand-made ceramic plate, in the warm company of friends.
A Visual NarrativeExtending from Esther the name and brand muse, the visual identity describes the personal traces and stories of her food travels. Put in the language of a travel diary, flowing food illustrations, personal marks and notes add warm and memorable touches to the collateral. Neutral tonality and rich print textures support the idea of an eclectic but refined experience.
Collaborators
Interior Design — Nic Graham & Assoc.F&B — Sean ConnollyPhotography — QT Hotels and ResortsPrint Production — Lisa McCulloch, Event
Awards
Eat Drink Design Awards 2021 — Finalist
AGDA Awards 2021 — Finalist
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