Valeriia Löffler crafts an exquisite packaging design for KOTORI Uji Matcha, pairing sumi-e crane gold foiling with deckled Washi paper.

KOTORI centers on centuries of Uji tea heritage. Valeriia Löffler approaches the project as a quiet ritual object. The central emblem depicts a red-crowned crane guarding a golden ceramic bowl. In Japanese folklore, the crane symbolizes longevity, grace, and spiritual protection. This artwork draws inspiration from Edo period woodblock prints and sumi-e ink paintings. Delicate feather linework rests against deep forest-green matte paper. The golden chawan bowl shines with embossed metallic foil. Every visual element balances high contrast with calm restraint. The resulting packaging design turns tea preparation into an immersive artistic ceremony.

Ceremonial Packaging Design and Material Ritual

The typographic system reflects the Japanese concept of Ma, or intentional negative space. Valeriia Löffler pairs Ogg by Sharp Type with LL Brown from Lineto. Ogg provides graceful calligraphic curves for display titles. LL Brown delivers clean, functional precision for instructional copy. Uncluttered margins give each typographic mark room to breathe. The outer box remains entirely free of commercial noise. Generous spacing establishes a serene rhythm across all secondary labels. Clear hierarchy guides the eye naturally through each layer of the experience. This disciplined packaging design lets the structural materials lead the narrative.

Tactile substrates define the unboxing sequence. Opening the rigid outer box reveals deep silk fabric lining. The soft fabric cradles a handmade ceramic bowl, bamboo whisk, and chasaku spoon. A minimalist tin cylinder protects the ceremonial grade Uji matcha powder. The tea preparation guide features heavy, deckled-edge Washi paper cards. These individual cards fan out smoothly on a solid brass pivot rivet. Each physical surface emphasizes authentic craftsmanship and quiet luxury. The packaging design honors traditional tea culture through refined material choices.

Discover more inspiring packaging design work on the studio's portfolio. See the full project by Valeriia Löffler on Behance.