Bret Liar’s design for Happyblob turns the art of fermentation into a bright, contemporary brand

What began as a simple home experiment in kombucha brewing quickly evolved into a creative passion project. Inspired by the joy of fermentation, Happyblob blends design, craft, and curiosity into one distinctive brand.

The concept was sparked when designer Brett Lair and his wife began brewing kombucha at home, adding it to a growing list of fermentation hobbies that already included brewing beer and baking sourdough. Their favourite flavour — blueberry vanilla — became a signature of the process.

The brand name, Happyblob, is a fusion of their initials, H & B, and a nod to the “blob,” or pellicle, that forms across the top of the kombucha during fermentation. This unusual, jelly-like layer inspired both the name and the visual direction — playful, modern, and a little unexpected.

Beyond its origins in the kitchen, Happyblob also served as a creative exercise in brand development. The project became a way to explore how personality, craft, and design can come together in a way that feels authentic and inviting.

In an industry where founders often look for designers who understand their world — coffee for coffee founders, beer for brewers — Happyblob became more than a hobby. It’s a showcase of design thinking, authenticity, and the joy of creating something that feels truly alive.

For more information on the design, visit Brett Lair's website or follow them on Instagram .

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