Emma Helean

L’Apéro is a branding project for a sunset bar that explores how design can encourage connection and presence. Growing up between France and New Zealand, I noticed how the French apéritif and New Zealand sunset share a similar feeling: a pause at the end of the day to spend time with others.

L’Apéro takes inspiration from cultural rituals and storytelling, celebrating cultural differences through shared experiences. The identity developed through character experimentation, feedback and hands-on printing techniques, including Risograph and screen printing.

The final identity centres around two characters, a French champagne glass and a Kiwi red wine glass. Their story unfolds across a concertina menu, storybook, etched glassware and printed materials.

L’Apéro celebrates cultural differences while recognising the socail rituals moments that bring people together.