When it comes to packaging design, beer is one area where we see design trends emerging early. The popularity of craft beer offers individuals and independent artists a freer reign than that which is afforded to the design agencies working on the bigger brands.

The Big Picture’s annual Trends Analysis report is conducted across all fields of design from fashion, to furniture, to product design and beyond. Following the 2014 report, we have identified the top five emergent design trends in beer packaging. You don’t have to follow them, but it’s always good to know what they are!

01. Copper

Due to the increasing scarcity of copper, the material is progressively becoming more premium and we’re seeing this manifest across the beer sector as it suggests a more luxurious experience for the consumer.

Brands such as Pilsner Urquell, Turia Märzen and Sekinoichi have already made a nod to the trend with copper coated fonts and bottles.

02. App-inflated

As global design leaders Apple have had a large part in inspiring this trend, for forms that mimic the distinctive rounded rectangular shape of app icons in three dimensions.

In the brewing industry we’re seeing strong, masculine structures, juxtaposed with soft, friendly curves like those from Wakefield Brewery and Bitches Brew.

03. Black Matte

Originally a finish associated with dated consumer electronics, matte black is demonstrating the cyclical nature of design, with a modern day resurgence.

The trend is filtering strongly into beer, such as Beat Beer, Orlando Brewing Co. and Jagodinska Brewery which convey a cool, sleek and premium visual, as well as a bold, flavourful taste experience.

04. Freighted

As globalization rolls on, the functional and visual language of shipping and distribution has started to inspire the design world. In beer, this is noticeable by a raw and unpolished feel, while references to destinations are being used as a means of conveying provenance and adventure.

Artificial Horizon’s ‘Around the World Beer’ is a prime example, with bottles inspired by vintage luggage labels from around the globe.

05. Drawn freeform

We are beginning to see design imitate art and hand drawn idiosyncrasies are emerging, adding individuality and character to products such as Devil’s Peak Beer, Tarantino Brewery and Barcelona Beer Company.

Craft beers in particular are applying this approach and are able to exude a charm that bigger brands struggle to match.

Words: Stuart Chapman

Stuart Chapman is associate director at The Big Picture

Have you spotted a packaging trend we should be covering? Let us know in the comments!