Block Typeface

This project explores the design of an original modular typeface inspired by everyday household objects. Wooden blocks served as the foundation for the letterforms. The goal was to create a typeface that feels playful, expressive, and visually distinct while still maintaining legibility and consistency across a complete alphabet. The completed alphabet was applied across different design formats to demonstrate the versatility and functionality of the typeface

Block Typeface

This project explores the design of an original modular typeface inspired by everyday household objects. Wooden blocks served as the foundation for the letterforms. The goal was to create a typeface that feels playful, expressive, and visually distinct while still maintaining legibility and consistency across a complete alphabet. The completed alphabet was applied across different design formats to demonstrate the versatility and functionality of the typeface

Title

Block Typeface

Category

Type Design

Software

Adobe Illustrator

Title

Block Typeface

Category

Type Design

Software

Adobe Illustrator

Title

Block Typeface

Category

Type Design

Software

Adobe Illustrator

Orange Flower
Orange Flower

Block Typeface

Block Typeface

Background

This project explores the creation of an original typeface inspired by everyday household objects. The goal was to design letterforms that feel playful and unique while maintaining legibility and consistency across a complete alphabet.

Creating the Typeface: Block

I photographed wooden block structures to create the foundation of each letter, then imported the images into Illustrator to trace and refine the forms. These shapes were repeated and adjusted to build a consistent, cohesive alphabet.

The typeface is built on a consistent baseline, x-height, and cap height to keep all of the letterforms aligned and easy to read. I focused on using angular bowls and a blocky structure, which were inspired by the shapes of the wooden blocks. These repeated geometric forms create consistency across the alphabet while still giving the typeface a playful and unique feel.

Expansions

Expansions

I applied the typeface across a range of branding applications to show its versatility and personality. These included a bar logo and signage, a children’s book cover, a record cover, an art event app, and a jazz poster. Each application explores a different use of the typeface while maintaining a cohesive visual identity.