When longstanding hospitality client Mimo approached Campbell Hay to work with them on the name, concept and execution of a new open-air pintxos bar as part of Borough Market Kitchen, we knew that capturing the quality, vibrancy and conviviality of San Sebastian would be the primary objective. 

A naming workshop led to ‘Batera’, a name which means ‘together’ in the Basque region’s local dialect, deftly communicating the concept’s authenticity and a deep-rooted connection to its origin. It’s a sentiment reinforced by the compact logotype, its characters huddled to represent the lively crowds that gather in the city’s Old Town to eat and drink together each night.

This playful typographic identity system was supported by a series of illustrations which mimic animated gestures and social interactions — a dynamic conversation over a plate of pintxos, for example, or sliding dishes across a bar. Applications included clean, contemporary menus which could be changed daily; crisp, traditional chef’s whites finished with an apron in an earthy hue, and graphic signage, executed throughout the space. A fun, snappy tone of voice was formulated, too — one which evoked a barman or waiter calling out ‘your order is up!’ — to communicate the brand story across all written assets.