Kater
branding identity design | creative direction
Brand identity design exploration for a cultural landmark in Berlin
Formerly known as Kater Blau, Berlin's long-standing club has wrestled with its identity almost since its inception. Despite its renown and respect in the nightlife scene, it has evaded a meaningful brand identity across its 10+ years of existence.
The goal: give Kater a visual identity worthy of its place in Berlin's cultural landscape — fresh, consistent, and recognizable, built around a story of fun and togetherness.
The Diagnosis
CURRENT
PAST
Kater's existing flyers had handmade texture and bold color going for them, but little else — no story, no hierarchy, nothing that made one poster distinctly Kater. Before designing anything new, the work started with naming what wasn't working.
CONCEPT ONE
Discothek Collective Collage
A layered, analog-inspired direction built from torn paper, print textures, and joyful clashing color — a visual language for the idea that a party is beautiful simply because everyone showed up for it. Images are sourced from royalty free historical archives and could ultimately be a place for the Kater community (and it’s connected Holzmarkt) to submit images for inclusion. A community representing itself.
Message: We are part of something beautiful because we are here, and we are together.
CONCEPT TWO
The Party & the Natural World
Earthy tones with boosted saturation, handmade texture, and a flowing blackletter wordmark set against neon accents — this direction roots Kater's nightlife energy in something warmer and more grounded, also nodding to Kater’s beautiful location on the river Spree.
This concept also ties back to Kater’s roots- the club as we know it today is a reimagination of Bar 25, first opened on the river in 2003. This club, as well as the current venue, is known for it’s eclectic hand-made feeling decor.
Message: It’s only natural to have fun together
Closing thoughts
Of the two, The Party & the Natural World felt like the stronger long-term identity — distinctive at a glance, flexible across events, and finally giving Kater a visual voice as considered as its reputation in the scene. I also love the storytelling that reaches back to Kater’s roots and is inspired by the venue itself.