Grounded in Tradition, Stirred by Innovation.
Hvala began as a quiet pioneer introducing Singapore to hand-whisked matcha and a slower way of gathering. A decade in, the brand still stood for calm and contemplation but the world around it had changed.
Stillness Meets Momentum
As matcha goes mainstream, Hvala risked blending into the noise. The challenge: evolve their presence so they could lead the category’s next wave without betraying their serene roots.
Behind the Transformation
SEEN & UNSAID
We reviewed Hvala’s existing touch points—menu boards, digital assets and in-store cues—pinpointing where stillness felt too static and where subtle motion could come alive.
CHARACTER & FORM
We articulated a refreshed brand presence, honouring Hvala’s legacy of calm while laying the groundwork for renewed vitality in a crowded market. Every element balances pause with purpose, with soft strokes and light-and-shadow textures echoing the swirl of tea leaves and the drift of aroma.
Visual Identity
Inspired by tea stains and natural forms in flux, the bespoke graphic motifs speak to brewing’s gentle choreography: hills, reeds and breezes captured in minimalist abstraction. Overlapping type and graphics introduce a non-traditional attitude.
Packaging System
We refined Hvala’s look with warm minimalism: subtle gradients and fluid shapes that signal both stillness and intent as you bring the cup closer.
PEOPLE & PLACES
Working with LAANK, we collaborated on translating our concept into the café space, ensuring Hvala’s identity shone through while retaining the experience customers love.
It was a pleasure working with Somewhere Else on our branding journey. What stood out most was their genuineness in understanding Hvala’s roots, what we stand for, and the energy we hope to share.
They were thoughtful and proactive partners who remained flexible and understanding throughout the process. We’re grateful for their collaborative spirit and the care they put into this project.
Outcomes
Hvala’s refreshed identity creates space for growth while preserving its quiet confidence. It bridges its roots with its future, allowing the brand to move forward with:
- Cohesive visual system that scales across touch points and locations.
- Presence that invites both the loyal purist and the curious newcomer.
The brand's timelessness hasn’t changed but what carries it forward just caught up—tradition and change within every cup.