Blarney Castle, House, and Gardens, located in County Cork, Ireland, is a historic treasure renowned for its stunning landscapes and the legendary Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow "the gift of the gab" upon those who kiss it. Dating back to the 15th century, the castle is surrounded by expansive, beautifully maintained gardens rich in native flora. Within these gardens, fresh produce is cultivated, inspiring the creation of organic products available in the gift shop, including cider, honey, and seed packets, all crafted on-site. Our task was to develop packaging and advertising that encapsulated the lush, historic ambiance of the estate while ensuring that the packaging could be effortlessly implemented by the on-site team.
Approach
The branding needed to embody the essence of this historic site, infused with a distinctly natural and Irish character that would resonate with both local sensibilities and tourists, particularly from Europe and America. We sought to convey a sense of historical prestige while avoiding an outdated or stuffy aesthetic. Emphasising the vibrant, lush liveliness of the gardens and castle grounds, we aimed to reflect the dedication and care of every team member at Blarney in each product.
Outcome
To achieve this, I selected organic textures such as handmade paper and woven fabric to evoke the natural essence of the products, pairing them with vintage botanical illustrations that maintain a historical feel. A rich yet natural colour palette inspired by traditional Irish pigments and the scent or flavour profiles of the products was employed. The 'Over the Garden Wall' product line has gained immense popularity in Cork, leading Blarney Castle & Gardens to repeatedly return to expand their offerings. The brand’s elegant yet inviting design has successfully captured the hearts of both locals and visitors alike.
