Orange Handle
For Orange Handle Coffee, the goal of our brand design is to honor the comfort and reliability of classic diner coffee while presenting it in a way that feels beautiful and contemporary. The inspiration comes from the iconic orange handled diner coffee pot and the broader culture of American diners, places where coffee is simple, welcoming, and always available.
The design also draws on the nostalgia of the 1990s, a time many of today’s specialty coffee drinkers associate with road trips, diner stops, and shared moments around a simple cup of coffee. That era represents a kind of everyday connection that feels increasingly meaningful today, as people look for small rituals that bring them together away from screens.
At the same time, the design intentionally elevates the experience. The packaging was created to be visually appealing enough that people want to keep it on their countertop and proudly serve it to guests. While decaf quality has improved significantly in recent years, especially among specialty roasters, it has historically been treated as an afterthought in coffee culture. For Orange Handle, decaf is the entire focus. The design reflects that philosophy by presenting decaf as something thoughtful, valued, and worthy of attention.
By combining diner nostalgia with clean, modern design, the goal was to create a brand that makes specialty decaf feel approachable, familiar, and timeless, celebrating the classic pleasure of a great cup of coffee that can be enjoyed anytime.
Sustainability is reflected both in the sourcing philosophy behind the coffee and in the broader values expressed through the design.
We are committed to working with importers, partners, and producers who share a focus on responsible sourcing and long-term stewardship of coffee-growing communities and environments. We prioritize relationships with well-established importers who are known for working closely with producers and supporting sustainable farming practices.
An important part of this approach is our commitment to natural decaffeination methods. All decaffeinated coffees are processed using methods such as Swiss Water, Mountain Water, or Sugar Cane processes rather than traditional chemical solvent methods. These approaches help preserve the character of the coffee while aligning with a more thoughtful and environmentally responsible approach to decaffeination.
Beyond sourcing, sustainability is also reflected in the design itself. The packaging emphasizes durability and timelessness rather than disposable trends. By drawing from classic diner culture—an enduring and recognizable part of coffee history—the design aims to create a visual identity that remains relevant over time rather than following short-lived aesthetic cycles.
Together, these choices reflect a belief that coffee should be produced and presented with care for both the people who grow it and the environment in which it is cultivated.
