by ibby
Discover The Mahjong Space by Berlin-based Joyce Müller — a brand identity reimagining mahjong with modern design and a mission to spark new interest.
Berlin-based story artist Joyce Müller brings new energy to an ancient pastime with The Mahjong Space, a brand identity project with a clear mission: to rekindle love for the game and make it resonate with a new generation. This isn’t the first time we’ve highlighted mahjong on Abduzeedo, and for good reason. The game is experiencing a real design-driven comeback, with creative projects reinterpreting its cultural legacy for contemporary audiences. Müller’s work joins that momentum, showing how thoughtful branding can carry tradition forward while capturing fresh attention.
A Mission Beyond Aesthetics
Mahjong has been played for centuries, yet its presence is fading among younger audiences. Müller set out to shift that narrative. Her goal wasn’t to simply refresh the visuals but to create a bridge between tradition and today’s culture, making mahjong feel approachable, playful, and relevant again.
A Modern Visual Language
The identity avoids clichés, instead leaning into soft palettes, rounded forms, and minimal iconography. The result is a visual system that feels fresh and warm while maintaining clarity. From logo and typography to packaging, UI, and social templates, each element builds toward a consistent language that celebrates the game in a modern light.
Why It Works
Müller’s work demonstrates how design can act as cultural stewardship. By reimagining mahjong through color, form, and tone, she reintroduces it as a living tradition, not a relic. For designers, it’s a case study in how subtle design choices can shape cultural relevance. The Mahjong Space is more than a branding exercise, it’s a reminder of how design can revive connections across time and community. Müller’s identity system doesn’t just represent a game; it repositions mahjong as a shared cultural experience worth preserving.
See the full project on Behance →