Case Study: Color Palette & Tagline Exploration for Elichi Cafe Branding
I recently developed a visual identity for Elichi, a proposed cafe brand specializing in cardamom-infused coffee and artisan baked goods. The project goals were to create a distinct, memorable logo and a cohesive system that reflects warmth and flavor.
This exercise was a direct comparison of two competing creative directions, testing how color palette shifts and tagline variations fundamentally alter brand perception for the same logo structure.
Concept 1 (Green Palette):
Focus: Organic heritage, botanical freshness, and high-energy mornings.
Palette: Deep Forest Green and Off-White/Light Cream.
Designer's Note: The green directly references the botanical origin of cardamom (elichi). This approach feels health-conscious, fresh, and grounded, making it ideal for a brand emphasizing natural ingredients and a clean aesthetic.
Concept 2 (Rust Palette):
Focus: Deep warmth, comfort, coziness, and rich espresso flavor.
Palette: Rich Rust-Orange/Terracotta and Muted Taupe/Coffee Cream.
Designer's Note: The rust palette shifts the focus from the plant to the product—evoking roasted coffee, warmth, and a comforting environment. This direction is about the emotional experience of being in the cafe.
Design Feedback Requested:
As I finalize the brand guide, I would love the input of the design community:
Color Perception: Which color palette better captures the specific blend of cardamom and coffee without losing market clarity?
Versatility: Which concept do you see having more longevity across packaging and signage?
Atmospheric, for a lighting brand it feels almost unfair not to show the product actually doing its job in a real room. The minimal version reads more like a furniture catalog to me. Is Lumeria leaning toward a specific price point or market that would push this one way or the other?
Sometimes, all it takes is a change in color – and the exact same design can feel completely different.
The light version, with soft pink tones and natural textures, feels fresh, light, and airy. It creates a sense of calm, natural beauty, and a closer...