Kanuka is a specialist loose-leaf tea company based in St Albans; a family run business created by John and Beth Hesler and Sophie Taylor. The original concept was sparked by the unusual Christmas gift of an expensive kettle, which gave John the idea of creating a unique tea blend that would equal his gift in elegance. The journey towards the birth of Kanuka followed.
With interest in loose-leaf tea and blends growing due to the emergence of stylish new tea houses and brands, Kanuka are at the forefront of the revolution in transforming tea. Across the globe, the varieties and tastes of tea are now being appreciated in a whole new way thanks to aficionados and enthusiasts alike.
DesignLSM were approached to create the brand identity and interior design for Kanuka, which included a full compliment of applications including signage, business stationery, point of sale and packaging.
"Kanuka is worlds apart from your typical English teahouse and it was important that we made that distinction in how the brand was communicated," commented Steve Campion, Brand Director of DesignLSM. "The copywriting element was important from the start of the process to establish a clear and calm tone of voice. The tone carries through into the design application, which combines minimal Japanese inspired pattern design with modern type and beautiful still life photography."
The patterns are a visual representation of the essence of the tea - well-being, naughty, classic. The selection of 40 bespoke teas are also colour coded and presented within a striking in-store wall display.
Photography: James French