Introduction: When Oude Molen Distillery approached Thingking Studio to enhance the guest experience for their brandy tours and tastings, we embarked on a journey to design a copper tray that would not only serve as a functional vessel but also as a storytelling platform, educating visitors about the intricate process of brandy making. As a freelance designer collaborating with Thingking Studio in Cape Town, I had the privilege of contributing to this innovative project.
The Client's Vision: Oude Molen Distillery sought to create an immersive experience for guests, allowing them to delve deeper into the artistry and craftsmanship behind their renowned brandy. The challenge was to encapsulate the essence of the brandy making process within the confines of a copper tray, ensuring that each element conveyed a rich narrative that would captivate and educate visitors.
Design Concept: Drawing inspiration from the rustic charm of traditional distilleries and the timeless elegance of copper vessels used in the brandy making process, our design concept revolved around crafting a visually striking tray that seamlessly integrated informative graphics and functional components. The tray would serve as a canvas, guiding guests through each stage of brandy production, from grape cultivation to bottling.
Components and Features: The redesigned copper tray would house a curated selection of components, meticulously chosen to enhance the sensory experience for guests:
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Tasting Glasses: Elegant glassware, carefully arranged to showcase the color and clarity of different brandy varietals, inviting guests to indulge their senses and savor the nuances of each blend.
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Wooden Scent Pieces: Handcrafted wooden pieces infused with aromatic essences, evoking the scents of oak barrels and vineyards, transporting guests to the heart of the brandy making process with every inhalation.
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Tester Containers: Small vials containing samples of raw ingredients such as grapes, alongside distilled spirits at various stages of maturation, allowing guests to witness the transformative journey from vine to bottle.
Graphic Elements: Incorporating informative graphics into the design, we illustrated each step of the brandy making process, from fermentation to distillation, with captivating visuals and concise descriptions. These graphics served as educational tools, enriching the guest experience and fostering a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle of Oude Molen brandy.
