NEXTDOOR bar and restaurant, located just two blocks away from the central district of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Founded by lifelong friends Declan and Jesse, who grew up together and share a love for intimate gatherings, NEXTDOOR aims to recreate the warmth and camaraderie of neighborhood parties.
The design concept, crafted by graphic designer Myundones, embodies simplicity and nostalgia. The brand identity reflects high school memories, with a mix of serif fonts and handwritten notes, evoking the joy of carefree days and weekend parties. The logo, featuring subtly tilted ‘o’s to symbolize friends leaning on each other, adds a personal touch.
Nextdoor has consistently been positioned as a brand for everyone, with no distinctions in social status. No matter who you are, when you step into Nextdoor, everyone is encouraged to feel at ease, enjoying a meal, engaging in conversation, and entertaining each other, just like friends.
At NEXTDOOR, there’s no need to dress up. Visitors can relax, enjoy elevated yet simple dishes, and sip on thoughtfully crafted drinks. “No need to dress up – just come as you are. It’s the kind of place where you can munch on some good food, and sip on drinks, all without any fuss. A spot to kick back, unwind, and have a good time,” says the team behind NEXTDOOR. The emphasis is on creating a close-knit, friendly environment where everyone feels at ease, regardless of social status. “Nextdoor has consistently been positioned as a brand for everyone, with no distinctions in social status. No matter who you are, when you step into Nextdoor, everyone is encouraged to feel at ease, enjoying a meal, engaging in conversation, and entertaining each other, just like friends.”
The bar&restaurant’s playful visual identity captures the essence of youth, fun, and friendship
Flash photography in low light, with a grainy effect, immortalizes moments of joy, like friends throwing parties and enjoying games of pool, poker, air hockey, and foosball. “Images of people drinking, leaning on each other, or draping over each other are used to convey aspects of visual identity in the Nextdoor system.”
Jesse’s inspiration for NEXTDOOR came from his longing for a place that echoed the high school vibes and parties of his youth, which he missed during his travels for work. “He thought that if there wasn’t any, he would be the first to bring this vibe to Saigon. So that people who travel for work, work far from their hometown like him can gather to remember the old memories,” says Jesse, reflecting on his motivation to create NEXTDOOR. Now, NEXTDOOR brings this unique party style to Saigon, offering both locals and visitors a chance to reminisce and create new memories.
