Opened to the visiting public in August 2022, Ardara Distillery, the home of the Sliabh Liag Distillers, produces heavily-peated single malt and pot still whiskeys, which during the maturation process are not expected to be bottled or placed on sale before 2025.
In October 2022 I was commissioned to develop and design a digital destination for visitors and whiskey enthusiasts alike to receive basic information on the distillery, its location and philosophy. This was also to include a focused overview of the 'Seanchaí Cask Club' allowing the public the option to invest in their own bespoke cask online.
Without a full set of brand guidelines I gathered together the pre-existing brand assets which took the form of the core identity and a roundel.
In analysing this sparse 'kit of parts' I was able to determine typefaces that could be employed to create consistency for the brand. I took inspiration for the colour palette from the copper stills and blue walls of the gift shop interior as well as from the interior of the actual distillery, which is largely monochrome. This influenced how photography could be implemented within the overall design.
In conducting my research I learnt that the architect designed the distillery building with traditional, cathedral-esque buildings in mind. This provided the inspiration for using the 'gable' end shape as a device to contain imagery and for the creation of ‘ownable' repeat patterns.
The resulting design reflects the premium nature of the product the distillery produces, a respect for its traditions and provides an identity that will evolve as the brand grows.
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