Good design has been at the heart of the Harris enterprise from the outset, and we're always looking to raise the bar on the products we produce.
So, last year we set out to further develop our ever-popular Isle of Harris Gin gift range, looking at every aspect of their designs from the ground up, helping to make sharing our spirit even more special.
Once again, our small in-house creative team turned to a long-term friend of the project and the designer behind the distillery's brand identity, Graham Walker, to take on the challenge with us.
Graham has won many creative awards over his 30-year career, including Scottish Design Awards, Roses Awards, D&AD, Clio Awards, Communication Arts, and Scottish Designer of the Year.
We asked him to give us a little insight into his work on the range we've launched this evening to provide a designer's insight into the project.
He tells us…
"The challenge was one of balancing the multiple objectives to create something which does the beautiful Isle of Harris Gin and glasses justice. We need to consider everything from the cost of production and green credentials, to the unboxing experience and the structural integrity of the packaging."
The unboxing experience in particular is always important to us, along with the look and feel of the materials and visuals used throughout, something Graham is happy to elaborate upon…
"We've staged the information so that there's a gradual, multi-layered reveal, and we've introduced more debossing and illustration to make the pack feel special. Iain Angus Macleod's beautiful drone shots of Harris shorelines also make a really striking impression."
And function was as important as form in the design process. It's never enough to look good; everything must do its job and do it well, as Graham explains…
“There's a better grade of board used throughout, making the packs much sturdier for their postal journey. The elements which hold the glasses are also really clever and unusual – each made using one piece of material, we hope people like them as much as we do!”
And, we're happy to say these new sets are also our most eco-friendly yet, helping to bring us further along the road in our environmental business journey…
"All materials used are 100% recyclable and created using sustainable materials. There are no glues or foiling to compromise the green credentials of the range. We've also looked to reduce the amount of material used throughout the process to keep it as efficient as possible without compromising its protective qualities."
We're delighted with the results, and a big thanks must go to Graham and his colleague Ian who have worked tirelessly with Lauren, Peter, John and I to bring these new gift sets into being. Graham confirms…
"I love working with the Harris Team. All have strong personalities but are very fair and willing to listen to opinions as well as give them. It's exciting to see the brand develop and particularly rewarding to contribute towards the success of such a well-loved, well-respected gin."
We hope you love Graham's work as much as we do and have enjoyed a little look behind the design of the new range.
And, if you like what you see here, then head over to our online shop to place your order!