Korak Studio’s punchy identity for DIG IN Art Diner takes inspiration from street art and graffiti

DIG IN Art Diner is a restaurant experience that sees great food and drink take inspiration from the art on its walls. Located on Dublin’s Camden Street, the venue underwent a refresh with the new concept of an ‘Art Diner’ – which sees large canvases, prints and sculptures positioned throughout the dining space. As part of the initial launch, the first collection boasts rare pieces by Banksy and Chloe Early as well as the only original painting in Ireland by Conor Harrington. 

Belgrade and London-based studio Korak were invited to create an identity that expresses this creative intersection of food and art. Looking to street art and graffiti aesthetics for inspiration, the team have provided a punchy, typography-driven visual language in conjunction with street artist Maser’s handwriting as the logotype. “Maser drew this for the identity as he’s friends with the owner and has artworks inside the restaurant as well,” Creative Director Kosta Rakicevic explains, “Dig In is an ‘Art Diner,’ so the idea was that the logo has a signature feel.”

Much like the cocktail menu – crafted by multi-award-winning mixologist Colin Dickson – the identity’s typographic direction is an exciting blend of compatible elements. Diagonal, all caps sans serif typography appears in striking layouts – with Dinamo’s ABC Favorit appearing as the leading typeface. “I think we felt in love with the ‘y’ descender on this one,” Rakicevic notes, “and eventually the client fell in love with it.” The unique approach to type and scale gives the identity a dynamic edge whilst retaining the mature character of the venue. “Initial proposals didn’t include a slanted approach,” Rakicevic reveals, explaining the direction, “but once we gave that approach a try we adored how iconic that looked to us.”

The leading colour, a deep emerald green, not only unifies the visual language but is also a subtle nod to the building’s past. Rakicevic informs us that the venue previously operated under the name ‘Green 19,’ “and they wanted to keep some connection to it,” he adds. Furthermore, the palette is a practical solution, with the Creative Director mentioning that the interior was a bit of a “burden” with dark green furniture that was already installed. “We later added the light smoke green,” he concludes.

Korak Studio

DIG IN Art Diner