Formgestalt 01

Great, you made it through a long bit of theory. Now, let’s focus on type-images and details instead. In the next section I present the various design parameters that I introduced in the previous chapter. They are visualized with the word “Formgestalt”.

The basic form of the word has no optical contrast in the stroke width, it has angled terminals as well as straight spurs and sharp corners. The connections between the stems and arches are harmonious and the letters tend to be of equal width. I personally find the typeface smooth, open and friendly, but not particularly spectacular.

The default design of the word Formgestalt

The comparison of the typefaces is done on two different levels. On the one hand, there are the “descriptive adjectives” (d), which compare the typeface only according to visual changes. On the other hand there are the “emotional adjectives” (e), which describe the resulting emotional effect of the font.

Have fun and click through the individual pictures, If you don’t agree with my adjectives, I am happy to receive your responses via mail.

Connection of Stem and Arch

The visual effect of a different connection

The typeface is more (e) cold, tough — (d) moving, constructed, dynamic, technical, composed than the default variant.

Reversed Contrast

The visual effect of a reversed contrast

The typeface is more (e) extraordinary, quirky, noisy, exceptional, heavy — (d) dynamic, modern, contemporary, livly than the default variant.

Low Contrast

The visual effect of a low contrast in stroke width

The typeface is more (e) elegant, retro, trustful, credible — (d) classic, balanced, light, curved, clean than the default variant.

High Contrast

The visual effect of high contrast in stroke width

The typeface is more (e) elegant, gentle, fashionable, attractive — (d) classic, light, fragile, delicate than the default variant.

Ink Traps

The visual effect of ink traps

The typeface is more (e) exciting, funky, fast, sportive, energetic — (d) dynamic, moving, active, lively/restless, instable, sweeping than the default variant.