Studio Brief 2 - Typeface Design - Initial idea 1

Using synonyms of succinct to physically alter the typeface

My first two ideas are based on using synonyms of 'succinct' that can physically be used to adapt Univers such as compact, condensed, short, tight and crisp. From these words I have been able to adapt the starting typeface to reflect these words.

Wayfinding typeface Rationale 

Focusing on the idea of compressing and condensing the typeface I have reduced the x height to be the same as the width of the letterforms, making the type square. There is minimal contrast in the letterforms to make it clear and bold. By removing the connection between the stem and bowl and making the shoulder straight this further emphasises the blocky structure of the letterforms. By using a consistent stroke width and simple structure this will enabled me to create large counters and internal space increasing legibility. The typeface would be used in wayfinding and signage because of its minimal structure and clear letterforms. It would balance functionality with personality.  

Digitally condensed letterforms which I have drawn over

By manipulating Univers so the x height and width were square I was able to roughly see how the typeface would look as a whole. This I thought looked consistent and regulated and allowed the letters to work alongside each other. From this I realised the importance of having a grid system within my type in order to retain similarities in form across my typeface and enable it to work in a variety of arrangements

Univers grid system

To help with designing, I recreated the grid used in Univers to create a basis for the letterforms. Although Univers's x height and width is rectangular I was able to test some of my design alterations.

Light version

By using the edges of the grid as a cut off point I moulded my letterforms around this shape. This has created more straight edges along the sides of the type which I think evokes a sence of the grid restricting and compressing the form. By following the edges of the grid I have also created larger counters and internal space in comparison to the original Univers. By removing the connection between the stem and bowl of letters such as b and g it has created a simpler form. When reading about characteristics of Univers the 'a' has a flat top which is an idea I have explored across the letterforms in terms of flattening the sides and tops of letterforms. I have retained curved aspects that appear in the original universe typeface, however I have standardised the curvature in each letter so it is consistent across letterforms.  

Bolder version

I have experimented with both thinner strokes to create a light type and also bolder strokes which are much bolder. The bolder strokes may be more suitable for wayfinding as they are clearer however I will have to experiment with this digitally to refine the weight of my design.

Type created using square grid 

Square grid systems 

By adapting the original Univers grid to be the same height as it is wide I have created a square format for my letterforms to be manipulated within. My initial experimentation has found that reproducing a double story 'a' within this space may prove to be quite difficult and look quite odd when compared with other simpler letterforms. The lack of internal space once the letterform has been placed within the grid makes it look at little squashed and not very clear so this may have to be changed to a single story 'a'.