The Revival Room: Blending History and Modernity in a Cocktail-Inspired Restaurant

Nestled in the historic Main Street of a bustling suburb, The Revival Room stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of past and present. This project was a unique opportunity to create a brand identity that respected the historical essence of its location while infusing a modern, spirited twist, much like the cocktails that inspired it.

Approached to brand a new cocktail bar and restaurant, the task was multifaceted – to honor the historical context of its Main Street location and infuse a contemporary flair. The project, delayed by over three years due to the pandemic, presented the added challenge of revitalizing local dining in a post-COVID world. A key client request was the incorporation of a fox into the branding, adding a layer of personal sentiment to the project.

The journey began with the name, "The Revival Room," symbolizing both the historical revival and the resurgence of good times post-pandemic. The branding process involved:

Designing the Logos: A primary logotype and a secondary logo featuring a fox were created, striking a balance between modern aesthetics and historical charm.

Tagline Creation: "The Revival of Good Times" was chosen to resonate with the community's desire to reconnect and celebrate life in their local establishments.

Color Palette: Selected deep tones to mirror the rich and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant.

Branded Storytelling through Drinks: Inspired by fables of the clever fox, Reynard, a series of signature cocktails like "REYNARD’S REVIVAL" and "REYNARD’S RENAISSANCE" were introduced.

AI Integration: Collaborating with MidJourney, we developed 17th-century oil painting-style images of foxes enjoying wine and cocktails, used in advertising and as interior décor to enhance the historical ambiance.

The Revival Room's launch captivated the community, quickly establishing itself as a premier dining and social destination. Its success in blending a reverence for history with a contemporary edge was key to its early acclaim. The Revival Room has become a symbol of resilience and rejuvenation in the local culinary scene.

Working on The Revival Room was an enriching experience, blending my passion for design with the intricate tapestry of history and modernity. The challenge of encapsulating the spirit of a historic town while breathing new life into its dining scene was a journey of creativity and discovery. Seeing the community's embrace of The Revival Room as a symbol of hope and renewal, especially post-pandemic, was a reminder of the power of thoughtful branding in creating spaces that resonate deeply with people's lives and histories.