Red Rooster, New York

To create a customized plate collection for Red Rooster Harlem – one of New York’s most legendary restaurants – was an assignment we not only accepted, but jumped for joy at. With Marcus Samuelsson as a culinary visionary and a menu that both celebrates Harlem and offers warmth, rhythm and soul, we knew this would be something truly special.

We collaborated with the team behind Red Rooster to create a collection with the desire that the brand would feel strong – but not be seen. No big logos, no shouting. Just a subtle presence and a self-evident identity. The solution? We divided the Red Rooster logo into several parts and placed them over different plates, saucers and bowls – so that the whole is only visible if you look closely. A kind of whispering branding, with a strong visual identity.

The porcelain itself is classic and durable, but at the same time has an elegant bistro feel that matches both the food and the environment perfectly. It enhances the presentation without taking over – just like good porcelain should. And it works just as well for their famous brunch as for late dinners with gospel, jazz and soul in the background.

At Norling Studio, we love challenges. Especially when it comes to creating restaurant porcelain that does the job – and more. The Red Rooster project is a prime example of how form, function and feel can be woven together into something unique.