I recently explored the design of a chocolate brand, Xocolātl, and it's been a fascinating journey into the heart of what makes chocolate so much more than just a treat. My aim was not just to create a product but to craft an atmosphere and a mood that connects with the rich and luxurious heritage of Mesoamerican culture.

Xocolātl is designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia, a luxurious mood inspired by an era where chocolate was sacred—a valued treasure of the Aztecs. The use of turquoise in the design isn't merely aesthetic; it's a bridge to the past, a color that the Aztecs prized as highly as gold. Turquoise represents the vibrancy and life-giving qualities of water and sky, central to the culture that first cultivated the cacao.

Gold in the packaging doesn't just signify luxury; it's a nod to the opulence and high regard in which chocolate was held. It's about recreating that moment of discovery, the deep respect that would have surrounded chocolate as it was presented to Aztec nobility. Each Xocolātl bar is wrapped in this symbolism, intended to make the act of unwrapping chocolate feel like a ceremonial experience—a tribute to its storied past.

The designs, from the logo to the intricate patterns on the packaging, draw direct inspiration from Mesoamerican art and symbols. Each piece of art tells the tale of chocolate's divine origins. With Xocolātl, I aimed to create something that wasn't just seen or tasted but felt - an experience that would transport you to the times when chocolate was a discovery, a gift from the gods, to be savored and celebrated.

In the crafting of this brand, I found myself humbled by the weight of history and inspired by the potential to bring a piece of it into the present day. Xocolātl is a homage to the past, wrapped in the present, designed to be relished by those who seek not just flavor, but an experience—a taste of history, wrapped in gold and turquoise.

The interior design of Xocolātl’s space extends this journey from our hands to the environment where the chocolate is savored. Stepping into the Xocolātl store, one is enveloped by an ambiance that is at once cozy and majestic. The rich, earthy tones on the walls, adorned with motifs inspired by Aztec art, create a backdrop that’s both sophisticated and steeped in history. The seating, with its plush turquoise cushions, invites guests to linger, while the golden accents glimmer softly, echoing the preciousness of the chocolate that adorns the shelves.

Here, the experience of chocolate is communal, reflective of its historical role in Mesoamerican culture as a centerpiece for gathering and celebration. The layout encourages conversation and shared moments, amidst the lush greenery that brings a touch of the cacao groves indoors. It’s a design that’s mindful, intentional, and above all, an invitation to indulge in the richness of history—one piece of chocolate at a time.