Patagonia: Taste the Earth

3D Modeling, Laser Cutting, Rebrand

This project involved rebranding the premium brand Patagonia into a bespoke chocolate company, focusing on infusing the brand’s core values of sustainability, simplicity, and connection to nature into the design.

August - November 2024

Team: Prue Steadson

Project Overview

In this semester-long project, I had the unique opportunity to rebrand the premium brand Patagonia into a bespoke chocolate company. The challenge was to infuse Patagonia's core values of sustainability, simplicity, and a profound connection to nature into every aspect of a chocolate brand, from the product design to the packaging. This endeavor was comprised of three main components: 3D modeling the chocolate, laser cutting the packaging, and designing the materials for both the chocolate and the packaging.

Design Inspiration and Concept Development

The project started with a deep dive into Patagonia’s brand identity, focusing on its environmental activism and rugged aesthetics. These elements were essential in shaping the design direction, ensuring the chocolate and its packaging resonated with the outdoor and sustainability themes of the brand. On top of this, we utilised Adobe Firefly to help spark creativity and inspiration

Chocolate Bar Design

Dimensions: 160mm x 80mm, 12mm height

The design of the chocolate bar was a blend of artistic creativity and technical precision. Initial sketches focused on integrating elements reminiscent of mountainous landscapes and natural motifs. These sketches were then translated into detailed 3D models using Fusion 360, allowing for precise control over the shape and texture of the bar. The final design featured a unique, lofted terrain with minimalist illustrations symbolizing sun, tree, and rain—core elements of the natural environment Patagonia advocates to protect.

Early Concepts

Final 3D Model

Packaging Design

Materials: Selected 2.3mm boxboard for its eco-friendly attributes and structural qualities.

Design Features: The packaging integrates laser-cut patterns that mirror the textured design of the chocolate bar, creating a cohesive visual and tactile experience. A clever addition of a rope pull tab through a small hole in the inner tray enhances functionality while emphasizing the sustainable design.

packaging sketches + final renders