LEBEN
Mascot of Braun Büffel Singapore. Leben first appeared in the summer 2022 collection, now having permanent place at the Changi Airport store.
Braun Büffel, founded over a century ago in Kirn, Germany, has evolved into a global symbol of craftsmanship, style, and reliability. Renowned for its premium leather creations, the brand is celebrated by executives, travelers, and fashion enthusiasts alike. In recent years, Braun Büffel has explored a fresh direction by introducing a younger, modern mascot and stepping into the metaverse, blending its iconic legacy with cutting-edge design. Through its buffalo symbol, the brand continues to embody strength and individuality while embracing contemporary trends.
Challenge
Design a distinctive mascot that embodies the brand’s essence with a blend of elegance and intrigue. The mascot must have the versatility to adapt seamlessly across various settings, styles, and activities, ensuring it fits both digital platforms and physical advertisements. The design needs to integrate unique features such as a horn and a balloon-like texture, balancing playful aesthetics with the brand's sophisticated visual identity.
Solution
I developed a comprehensive reference board and held live sketching sessions to align with the marketing team’s vision, collaborating with a designer toy expert to refine the concept. The mascot's Leben movement was based on balloon simulation, and its shape was designed for easy posing and to wear accessories after being 3D printed. By balancing cloth simulation with an animation-friendly mesh, I ensured its versatility across various mediums.
Result
The design and movement successfully conveyed Braun Büffel's campaign message and later embodied the spirit of the brand at their airport store. Originally commissioned in mid-2022, the project was revisited in late 2023, reflecting the client’s satisfaction and trust in our creative solutions.