Camélia

DTLA Culinary Sketchbook

Interior Design
Branding
Visual Identity


Camelia, a distinctive restaurant in Downtown LA’s historic Nabisco Building, presented an exciting opportunity to craft a brand identity that reflects its unique culinary narrative.

The branding work for Camelia was built around a series of evocative illustrations. These visuals beautifully depict the owners’ travels through France and Japan, serving as a visual journey that informs the restaurant’s fusion of cuisines. The logomark itself thoughtfully symbolizes this cultural exchange, featuring intertwined wine and sake vessels a nod dialogue between the two countries and their rich culinary traditions.

Collaborators

Interior:
Cheri Messerli @Weekends

Illustrations:
Michelle Miller

Cutlery rests:
Gabi Ferrer

Camelia menu design
Camelia cutlery rest - Gabi Ferrer

This project encompassed developing a comprehensive visual language that extended across all guest touchpoints, from menus to interior elements. The aim was to create an atmosphere that felt both sophisticated and deeply personal, inviting diners to experience a taste of the owners’ global adventures.

Camelia tape design
Camelia website design
Camelia logo animation

Ultimately, the branding for Camelia restaurant showcases how design can tell a compelling story, transforming a dining experience into a cultural exploration and celebrating the thoughtful blend of diverse influences.

Photo of the bar at Camelia restaurant in Los Angeles
Camelia menu cover
Matchbook design for Camelia restaurant
Photo of the business cards at Camelia restaurant in Los Angeles
Photo of the exterior of Camelia restaurant in Los Angeles