Synthesis
This one was exciting!
Synthesis combines a bar and a gallery in the very heart of Sofia, both joined with Photosynthesis – a famous shop for photographic equipment and print house. What started as a logo refresh turned to be a menu redesign in two languages which included its production.
First off was the logotype. It reflects the random (in a good way) feel of the bar's interior, the variety of objects, materials and colours inside, the diverse people that are gathered day all year round, the cosy and imperfect overall setting.
Next up was the menu. After presenting a conceptual idea for the feel, layout and mix of materials, we continued forward with its design. We wanted it to reflect the same feel as the logo so we mixed various typefaces and graphical elements, along with illustrations with and imperfect feel to convey that. After a couple of print tests and proofs we dialled in what we wanted and the files both for Bulgarian and English were off to the printer.
Alongside that we researched and slowly sourced the best materials available for its production. All this came in an insecure time with prices getting higher by the day and some things were hard to come by. The backs are made from 2 mm thick laser cut copper plates; hold-down bars are made from beach wood, all cut, milled and finished by hand; all tightened down with copper fasteners ground down to size by hand. To finish them off we added a leather loop with different colour for each menu language, all 35 pieces cut and embossed by hand in our workshop.
Both we and the client were super happy with how these turned out. A good challenge and test of our skill set. The lovely shots pictured below were taken by the immaculate Simeon Levi who photographed them on the spot.
If you are in Sofia be sure to have a drink at bar Synthesis.
Photography: Simeon Levi
Photography: Simeon Levi
