BRAND:
IPPODO TEA
YEAR:
2024
EXPERIENCE:
3D MODELING | 3D DESIGN | PACKAGING
about.
Ippodo Matcha Box is a 3D luxury packaging design project inspired by Ippodo Tea Co. and the Zen origins of matcha. Drawing from historical research and traditional aesthetics, the set combines refined materials, symbolic elements like the Enso circle, and ceremonial details to create an immersive unboxing rooted in mindfulness. Designed in Blender, the box includes handcrafted tools and storytelling elements that honor matcha’s meditative legacy, offering a ritual that awakens the mind and elevates the soul.
My design process always begins with in-depth research to ensure that every visual element aligns seamlessly with the brand’s identity and the product’s story. While matcha is widely associated with Japan, I discovered through research that it was originally brought from China by the monk Eisai, who introduced it to Kyoto’s Uji region and recognized its role in Zen Buddhist meditation. This inspired my tagline: "Awaken the Mind, Elevate the Soul." I incorporated the ENSO (Zen circle) to reflect Zen philosophy, symbolizing simplicity and balance, into the design. The elegant patterns of the granite stone grinders used to create matcha also influenced the visuals for the faces of the box, emphasizing mindfulness and precision. For packaging, I chose wood to evoke calmness and harmony with nature, resonating with Zen’s values of balance and respect for the environment.
render.
Here's a glimpse into the rendering process in Blender. I sculpted the Enso circles directly onto the top flap of the box and imported SVG files from Adobe Illustrator for the logo and lettering. These work-in-progress shots highlight the raw 3D model before textures and lighting were applied.
results.
Upon opening the box, you are first greeted by a bamboo mat, traditionally used in tea ceremonies to serve as a base for all the tools. The left flap displays gold-embossed text that shares the brand story, while the right flap mimics a traditional Japanese tea ceremony invitation, complete with a red Mizuhiki knot, a decorative cord symbolizing formality and often used in ceremonial occasions. Unfolding the invitation reveals that it is more than it appears as it contains thoughtful instructions and detailed descriptions of the matcha tools within the luxury set.
Lifting the mat reveals the essential components: a tea strainer (chakoshi), a matcha bowl (mino-yaki), a bamboo whisk and its holder (chasen and chasen-tate), and a container of Ippodo matcha powder. Each item is thoughtfully designed to support both preparation and the ritual of enjoying matcha. The set provides the foundation for crafting the perfect cup, and for creating a meaningful, intentional moment.
