Rituale

Coffee has always been an integral part of my life, a constant presence growing up in Italy. A constant companion at home and at the bar, with family and friends, at the start of the day, or as an excuse to socialize and chat. This personal project is my homage to the classic instrument that first ignited my passion for this beloved beverage: the moka machine.

Invented in 1933, the Moka machine operates on a simple principle of steam pressure. Water in the bottom chamber is heated, forcing steam through coffee grounds nestled in a central filter, and the brewed coffee then collects in the upper chamber. While numerous design variations have emerged from different brands over the decades, the core extraction method has remained steadfast.

Now, let’s talk about the project. The brand, Rituale, embodies the profound ritual involved in coffee preparation. Making Moka coffee is a deeply personal and intuitive process—a cherished moment to step away from distractions and master the art. It’s a ritual to anticipate and savor.

Explored elements of the visual language are identity, product design, colors, packaging, typography and layout.

The Rituale Moka machine boasts a young, modern, and elegant design. A broad base plate efficiently prevents heat from the stove from reaching the handle, while an inner spout-less system ensures a splash-free extraction. The machine’s distinctive two-sphere form visually connects to the brand’s story, representing the sun and the moon. This symbolizes a ritual that seamlessly fits into anyone’s lifestyle, whether day or night. Available in aluminum or stainless steel, the machine comes in various color combinations inspired by the shifting hues of day and night.

The Rituale brand colors are also directly inspired by day and night. A primary palette of light, dark, and neutral tones establishes the foundation, complemented by a more complex gradient that offers greater flexibility within the system.

Considerable thought was also dedicated to packaging design. While maintaining a minimalist aesthetic, the primary goal was to develop a solution that not only met sustainability standards but also provided secure, sturdy protection for the product during shipping and handling. The design features two molded pieces of recycled, heavy paper that click together, precisely encasing the moka pot. Product information is then printed on a vertical wrap, which thoughtfully reflects the color of the moka pot inside.

To reinforce the brand’s authenticity, a custom variable typeface, Rituale Sans, was developed. It is designed to feel conversational, approachable, and human, creating a strong connection with both the brand and its products. Its rounded shapes and pronounced ink traps draw direct inspiration from the Moka machine itself and traditional coffee cups. As a variable typeface, Rituale Sans offers control over weight and ink trap depth, adapting gracefully across both light and heavier applications.

Identity
Product design
Packaging
3D modeling
Type design
Animation

Self initiated project