Website Creation
Following the development of the brand identity, I designed and built a full website experience for Zocca Cucina Italiana—a modern Italian restaurant inspired by the town of Zocca, Italy. The goal was to translate the warmth and charm of the physical space into a digital destination that feels as inviting and intentional as the dining experience itself.
Strategy & Execution
Following the development of Zocca Cucina Italiana's brand identity, I designed and built a full website experience on Squarespace. My aim was to translate the warmth, charm, and hospitality of the restaurant’s physical presence into a digital space that feels equally inviting and intentional. The site was crafted to reflect the modern yet welcoming spirit of the restaurant.
Deliverables Included:
Full website design and build on the Squarespace platform
Responsive layout optimized for both desktop and mobile users
Strategic page architecture and user flow enhancements
Integrated menu and newsletter sign-up feature
Embedded map, operating hours, and contact information
Custom styling aligned with brand fonts, color palette, and imagery
Client-friendly CMS setup for easy content updates and announcements
Image direction and curation to mirror the restaurant’s ambiance
Basic SEO setup to improve local search visibility
Platform Guidance & Support
Beyond design and build, I provided comprehensive guidance to ensure the Zocca team had a sustainable, scalable digital presence that fit their goals and resources.
Platform Selection: Recommended Squarespace as the most effective option for its balance of elegant design flexibility, ease of use for non-technical staff, and integrated functionality (menus, forms, newsletter sign-ups, SEO).
Domain Purchase & Connection: Supported the team through domain purchase, DNS configuration, and secure connection to the new website.
Pricing Transparency: Outlined various Squarespace plans, helping the team understand cost tiers and select the most appropriate option for their needs and budget.
Training & Handoff: Provided guidance on updating content, adding new events or announcements, and managing the site independently post-launch.
Ongoing Support: Ensured that the platform setup positioned Zocca for smooth day-to-day management while remaining scalable as the restaurant grows.
Key Messaging & User Experience Anchors
Digital Extension of Ambiance: The design evokes the elevated yet welcoming warmth of Zocca’s physical dining space—inviting guests to experience that feeling online.
Intuitive Navigation: Prioritized clarity and ease, enabling users to find menus, contact info, and updates quickly.
Local Visibility: Light SEO configuration helps the restaurant be more discoverable to potential local patrons.
Visual Direction
Clean & Elegant: Embraced a minimalist, refined layout balanced with rich, engaging visuals.
Cohesive Aesthetic: Drafted visual elements and images to reflect the restaurant’s elevated Italian charm and brand identity.
Functional Beauty: Design choices were not only visually appealing but also user-focused—ensuring the site is as functional as it is beautiful.