Le Pigeon

A visual identity redesign for a French-inspired restaurant in Portland, Oregon. Captivated by Le Pigeon's distinctive atmosphere and interior during a visit, I reimagined the restaurant's aesthetic while honoring its French heritage.

Branding

Visual Design

Project Overview

Client: Le Pigeon, a fine-dining French bistro
Skills: Graphic Design, Branding
Timeline: 3 months (2025)
My Role: Brand Designer



✦ Crafting a new brand identity that balances French authenticity with a warm, inviting atmosphere for one of Portland's most beloved and unique dining destinations. A personal rebrand of existing Portland restaurant Le Pigeon, redesigned to better reflect its unique aesthetic and atmosphere.



Client Background

Le Pigeon is a French-inspired Portland restaurant owned by award-winning Chef Gabriel Rucker. Known for its seasonal menu, intimate atmosphere, and blend of traditional French techniques with modern flavors, it has earned multiple James Beard Awards. The cozy space features communal tables and an open kitchen for a uniquely lively dining experience.


Authentic ✦ Traditional ✦ Rustic ✦ Warm ✦ Intimate




Reimagining the Soul of Le Pigeon

Although Le Pigeon includes incredible French charm and culinary, its visual identity doesn't fully capture the restaurant's authentic spirit. Reimagining its brand was an opportunity to honor Chef Rucker's award-winning vision while creating a stronger connection between the intimate dining experience and its visual presence.





Ideation



A Symbol That Embraces Freedom

The empty birdcage symbol directly connects to the restaurant's name while creating deeper meaning, suggesting freedom and possibility rather than confinement. Its illustrative style brings the authenticity and rustic charm that was missing from the previous identity, capturing the handcrafted spirit that defines Le Pigeon's approach to French cuisine.




Extended Brand Identity




Application


App/Website





Takeaways


What Made My Rebranding a Success?

  • Aligns with restaurant’s atmosphere and vibe

  • Clean and impactful design

  • Creates a memorable visual impression of the restaurant

  • Balances playfulness with elegance


What Could I have Done Differently?

  • Gather additional feedback from individuals with diverse backgrounds.

  • Delve deeper into the restaurant's history through comprehensive research.

  • Investigate a broader range of brand variations across different applications.