SUNRISE STEAM

Creative Objective

I set out to build a fictional coffee brand that could stand proudly in a real-world portfolio — something modern, inviting, and conceptually strong. The goal was to showcase my ability to take a brand from idea to execution, blending digital tools, strategic thinking, and visual storytelling.

I teamed up with AI to act as a creative springboard to keep the process efficient but still imaginative. I wanted the brand to feel warm, energizing, and visually unique — something that would connect with a local Long Island audience while remaining versatile enough for menus, packaging, and merchandise.

Process

1. Conceptualization with ChatGPT

I began by brainstorming with ChatGPT to define the brand identity of Sunrise Steam. I shared ideas and asked for help articulating the café’s vibe — a welcoming, sunny, community-focused space centered on coffee, comfort, and creativity.

ChatGPT helped me:

• Develop the brand name

• Refine the tagline and positioning

• Create a working menu for design mockups

• Suggest logo elements, color palette ideas, and supporting visuals

• Generate a repeat pattern and a sample menu layout for mockups

• Envision real-life merchandise mockups like to-go coffee cups

2. Design Execution

Using the AI-generated concepts as a guide, I transitioned into Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to polish the brand:

• I redrew the AI-generated logo in Illustrator for vector scalability

• I modified the pattern and packaging concepts to suit mockups and print use

• I created a branded menu, including logo placement, typography styling, and café items

• I retouched and composed realistic product photography, including coffee cup visuals with the finalized logo

Results

By leveraging AI, I was able to move from concept to high-quality brand visuals in a fraction of the time. The combination of AI ideation and human design execution gave Sunrise Steam a professional polish while keeping the creative process fast, exploratory, and enjoyable.

Final Deliverables

• Logo & Branded Assets

• Coffee Cup Mockups

• Café Menu Design

• Case Study Presentation

Conclusion

AI became a creative partner in this project, helping shape direction, unlock ideas, and streamline production. While the final designs were crafted in Illustrator and Photoshop, AI played a crucial role in ideation, visual prototyping, and storytelling. This hybrid workflow can unlock tremendous creative value for independent designers or small teams.