Zhe Gu Tea: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Sun Jian's Award-Winning Design Marries Chinese Tea Culture with Modern Simplicity

In a world where product diversification and homogenization are prevalent, standing out can be a challenge. Sun Jian's design for Zhe Gu Tea's packaging has managed to do just that, earning a Silver A' Packaging Design Award in 2019. This article delves into the unique properties, inspiration, and realization of this remarkable design.

At the heart of Sun Jian's design for Zhe Gu Tea is a unique logo mark. This mark, inspired by the slim profile of tea leaves, originates from the Chinese font of a little hero. It presents the shape of the aroma, encapsulating the essence of Zhe Gu Tea. The design inspiration came from the tale of a partridge, depicted resting on a tree against a pure white background. This simple, direct, and elegant line-drawing method adds a touch of sophistication to the packaging.

The packaging's high-end appeal originates from an obstruct conception of Buddhism, represented by the Chinese word "Kon". This is a nod to Dong Shan hill, the growing area of Zhe Gu Tea, which is a revered Buddhist shrine. The packaging design, therefore, not only highlights the characteristics of Chinese tea but also pays homage to the spiritual significance of its place of origin.

One of the strengths of this design is its ability to retain both traditional culture and modern simplicity. This balance is crucial in an industry that values cultural heritage but also recognizes the need for innovation to meet market demands. The choice of Zhe Gu Tea becomes a recognition of its packaging, enhancing the brand value and connecting a unique temperament with a way of life.

The project, which started in April 2016 in Beijing and finished in August 2017, was exhibited in Beijing in April 2017. The design process was not without its challenges. The tale of the partridge, the inspiration behind the design, had to be depicted simply and directly using a line-drawing method against a pure white background. This required a delicate balance of simplicity and sophistication, which Sun Jian managed to achieve successfully.

In conclusion, Sun Jian's design for Zhe Gu Tea's packaging is a testament to the power of blending tradition with innovation. It is a design that respects and celebrates China's rich tea culture, while also pushing the boundaries of modern simplicity. With its unique logo mark, elegant line-drawing, and spiritual undertones, it is no wonder that this design has earned a prestigious Silver A' Packaging Design Award.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: SUN JIAN
Image Credits: sunjian, Design director
Project Team Members: SUN JIAN
Project Name: Zhe Gu Tea
Project Client: SUN JIAN


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