Project Overview

I worked as both the graphic designer and the general manager at Sakanaya for over two years, a Japanese restaurant in Champaign, IL. Alongside running day-to-day operations, I designed the store’s marketing materials: a giftcard, a curtain, a takeout bag, and an in-store poster display. My goal was to make the store feel more recognizable and welcoming to new and returning customers.

My Role

Because I managed the store and designed for it, I could design around real needs. I knew how customers moved through the space, what the store could afford to print, and what staff needed in daily use. I handled the design from concept to final files, and coordinated printing and installation.

Design Approach

Across all four pieces I used the logo image of the fish and dark blue palette, Japanese and English texts to keep the brand consistent. The design aligns with the store’s identity of fresh seafood and welcoming culture by evoking a calm mood.