Rook: A Sophisticated Corporate Identity for a Cafe-Delicatessen

Creating a Unique Visual Identity for a Thematic Cafe

Rook is a corporate identity project for a new Cafe-Delicatessen, encompassing the naming, logo design, and its applications. The logo consists of the verbal section, "ROOK," which typographically emphasizes the letter R as a monogram in certain applications. The symbol, a minimalistic representation of a rook chess tower, is also incorporated. The color scheme of black against a white background, with touches of gold, adds a touch of elegance to the design. The main idea was to present the logo dynamically against a white background, allowing it to stand out regardless of other elements.

The materials used in the creation of the corporate identity were carefully selected to ensure an impeccable final result. Ecological papers with special textures, metallic offset colors, and wood with a matte lacquer finish were chosen to complement the interior surfaces. The textures of the materials were thoughtfully integrated to create a cohesive and visually appealing experience.

Technical specifications were also taken into consideration during the design process. The menu holder, for example, features a wooden base with a slot that securely holds the printed menu brochure in place. The menu brochure itself is bound with plastic screw binding, allowing for easy page replacement when necessary. The dimensions of the base, placemat, and menu card were carefully chosen to ensure functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The Rook project began in November 2013 and was completed in June 2014 in Athens, Greece. The Cafe-Delicatessen is located in Trikala, Greece, and has since become a popular destination for coffee, beverages, and delicatessen snacks.

Manos Siganos, the creative director behind Rook, conducted extensive research to ensure the success of the project. The search for a suitable name for the cafe involved studying neoclassic buildings, villas, and mansions, as well as considering the image the place evokes. The logo design research focused on translating the architecture of towers into a minimalistic, stylized form that conveyed robustness, dynamism, and strategic aspects. The creation of the corporate identity required careful consideration of the cafe's operational and promotional needs, resulting in the selection of high-quality products that represent a cohesive identity.

One of the challenges faced during the design process was the need to attract individuals of all age groups, particularly young and middle-aged individuals with high aesthetic and gustatory standards. To achieve this, a modern and visually appealing typography was chosen. The Neutraface font, characterized by sharp edges following the pointed R, was selected for its modernity and aesthetic appeal. The logo design also features equal thickness lines and distances between them, adding to its contemporary look.

Rook's corporate identity has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2015, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contribute to quality of life improvements, and make the world a better place.