When Bluestar approached Birch Design Group, the initial task seemed straightforward: create compelling graphics for their new 48" Induction Range. But as we dug deeper, we identified a fundamental challenge with induction cooking — unlike gas flames or glowing electric coils, induction provides no visual feedback to the user.
For consumers, this lack of cues can make the cooking experience less intuitive. Bluestar wanted their induction range to feel as premium, engaging, and user-friendly as their other high-performance products.
At Birch Design Group, we see graphic design as more than surface-level aesthetics. It’s an opportunity to enhance usability and enrich the overall product experience. While working through the cooktop graphics, we explored how visual design could solve the feedback gap in induction cooking.
Our concept: a linear light bar embedded in the cooktop surface. As the user increases burner power, the light expands in width, providing a clear, immediate correlation between visual intensity and cooking heat.
This simple design choice gave operators the feedback they naturally expect — a visual signal tied directly to performance.
We presented the light bar concept alongside our graphic design work. Bluestar immediately recognized its value, not just as a design feature, but as a functional innovation that improved the cooking experience.
So much so, that Bluestar took the idea a step further: they patented the concept.
What began as a graphics project became a catalyst for product innovation. For Bluestar, the induction range now had a differentiated feature that elevated usability and aligned with their reputation for professional-quality appliances.
For Birch Design Group, the project was proof of our philosophy:
This case study highlights what makes Birch Design Group different. Companies hire us for graphics, branding, or interface design — but they often discover we deliver much more. Our work blends aesthetic excellence with operational problem-solving, sometimes leading to outcomes as significant as a new patent.
You can see Bluestar’s 48" Induction Range in action in their feature video here: [Insert YouTube link].
If you’re looking for a design partner who goes beyond “making it look good” — one that brings creativity, usability, and innovation into every project — let’s talk.
Whatever your creative needs are, Birch can help. Not sure what you need exactly? We can help there, too. It all starts with a call, or an email. Reach out and see what we can do.
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