This is the brand identity design for Theaterbaren, created by Olss\u00f8nBarbieri in collaboration with the National Theatre of Norway. Located in the second-floor lobby of the National Theatre in Oslo, the bar opened in September 2025. It was designed as a space accessible not only to audience members before and after performances but also to general visitors. The studio handled everything from brand strategy and visual identity to linguistic expression and website design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The starting point of the graphics is the decorations found inside the theater. Forms were taken from curtains, mirrors, chandeliers, and floral patterns, with proportions exaggerated or outlines simplified. Illustrator Manon Cezaro drew these by hand. The strings tying the curtains become the letter T, and masks symbolizing comedy and tragedy are placed on the pillars. Spiderwebs were added to flower baskets taken from ceiling reliefs. This approach alters the form and color while maintaining the materials of the decorations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The lettering also captures the theater's gestures. A sharp-type Cordier Script was used, and Stefan Elmer customized the logo lettering. The curves created by the intersection of thick and thin strokes were applied to menus, information signs, and digital screens. The photography was done by Anne Valleur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The connection to the theater extends to the visitor guide as well. The menu includes a map of the interior to introduce both the existing architectural decorations and newly added elements. Instructions such as the importance of keeping quiet during performances are organized into ten rules of etiquette. In the program and on social media, expressions such as "backstage," "prompter," and "ghost"\u2014evoking the works of Ibsen\u2014were used. The building's decorations and the language of the performances were extended into the graphics and text that visitors encounter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n