Ukino Matcha: A Modern Ritual by Designer Siena Zadro

When Ukino Matcha set out to establish itself as a standalone brand, separate from Sydney’s thriving café culture, founder Amber turned to designer and illustrator Siena Zadro to bring the vision to life. Known for her work in identity design and illustration, Siena approached the project with a deep sensitivity to story, culture, and intention.

Ukino Matcha was envisioned as the sister brand to T Totaler, Amber’s original tea brand that helped shape Australia’s tea-making scene for over a decade. With Ukino, she wanted to shift the spotlight solely onto matcha—not just as a beverage, but as a process, a craft, and a ritual. The goal was to honour the depth of tradition behind matcha production, while also making it feel inviting and accessible to a contemporary Australian audience.

Siena responded with a brand identity that is both stripped-back and playful. The visual language leans into simplicity without losing character, offering space for the product and its story to breathe. Through thoughtful design choices, Siena captures the quiet care behind matcha’s preparation while infusing the brand with a sense of freshness and joy.

The identity carefully balances old and new—bridging centuries-old tea traditions with a modern, design-savvy audience. Playful illustrations and a warm, minimal aesthetic invite curiosity, while subtle nods to matcha’s cultural roots keep the experience grounded and respectful.

Ukino Matcha: A Modern Ritual by Designer Siena Zadro

When Ukino Matcha set out to establish itself as a standalone brand, separate from Sydney’s thriving café culture, founder Amber turned to designer and illustrator Siena Zadro to bring the vision to life. Known for her work in identity design and illustration, Siena approached the project with a deep sensitivity to story, culture, and intention.

Ukino Matcha was envisioned as the sister brand to T Totaler, Amber’s original tea brand that helped shape Australia’s tea-making scene for over a decade. With Ukino, she wanted to shift the spotlight solely onto matcha—not just as a beverage, but as a process, a craft, and a ritual. The goal was to honour the depth of tradition behind matcha production, while also making it feel inviting and accessible to a contemporary Australian audience.

Siena responded with a brand identity that is both stripped-back and playful. The visual language leans into simplicity without losing character, offering space for the product and its story to breathe. Through thoughtful design choices, Siena captures the quiet care behind matcha’s preparation while infusing the brand with a sense of freshness and joy.

The identity carefully balances old and new—bridging centuries-old tea traditions with a modern, design-savvy audience. Playful illustrations and a warm, minimal aesthetic invite curiosity, while subtle nods to matcha’s cultural roots keep the experience grounded and respectful.