Quarto Books

Designing a cocktail book rooted in plants

Book entitled "Botany at the Bar" on a pale mint background. Teal cover with illustrated cocktails at the top and botanical flowers, leaves, citrus, and berries at the bottom. Central white panel reads "The art and science of making bitters, including over 40 recipes for cocktails, syrups, and shrubs," with authors Selena Ahmed, Ashley Duval, and Rachel Meyer listed below.

We were commissioned by The Bright Press (Quarto Books) to design Botany at the Bar, a cocktail recipe book created by plant scientists and mixologists dedicated to showcasing the power of botanicals. The book explores how roots, leaves, stems and flowers can be used to create inventive and flavourful drinks.

Our role

We designed the cover and internal layouts, and commissioned illustrations by Clare Owen, building a design system that reflected the scientific-meets-creative ethos of the authors.

Open book spread from Botany at the Bar. Left page shows Chapter 2 title “Bitters and the Planet” with a small botanical cabinet illustration above body text. Right page features the heading “The Plants Behind the Drinks,” a column of explanatory text, and a botanical plate labelled “Vanilla planifolia,” with page number 25.

Creative approach

We combined contemporary typography with vibrant photography and hand-crafted botanical illustrations, giving the book a fresh, playful feel. The design highlights both the natural beauty of plants and the joy of mixing drinks, balancing utility with visual charm.

Impact

The book brings together science, creativity and lifestyle in a way that celebrates both botanicals and cocktails, helping The Bright Press expand its distinctive food and drink list.

“Michelle and the team at Studio Noel create book designs and illustrations that are full of personality, fresh ideas, professionalism, and fun. They are a fantastic, stylish, and innovative team to work with, and raise the bar on every project.”
Quarto Books

Open book spread from Botany at the Bar showing a plant directory section titled “Transcontinental.” Left page lists entries including gentians, mint, citrus, and agave with small botanical illustrations and notes on plant parts used. Right page features illustrated entries for cherry, rhubarb, celery, coriander, and cumin, with accompanying descriptions and plant part usage.