SKYLINE

SKYLINE

Challenge

I was asked to create a typeface inspired by a city.

Solution

Skyline is inspired by New York City, it combines the structure of the buildings with the personality and creativity of the people. I ended up creating a condensed serif typeface that works beautifully as a display font.

Diversify.
Simplify.
Magnify.

My Role

Designer

Timeline

3 months

Skills

Adobe Illustrator, Glyphs

Inspiration
Design
Implementation

Inspiration

My inspiration for the height of the letters came from the proportions of the Chrysler building. The more organic flowing elements of the typeface were inspired by calligraphic writing. I looked to other highly condensed fonts such as Univers 59 Ultra Condensed to inform some of my decisions on letter width and contrast. 

Design

This was the first typeface I made, I learned so much about letterforms in the process, from determining the style to making sure there are consistent elements throughout. This included setting type rules such as the height of the crossbar and maximum thicknesses. I began with an iterative process using tracing paper and pencil, it took time to figure out the style and consistency. The typeface changed drastically, for the better over time. Then I moved into Glyphs where I learned the program and tweaked the font form sketch form to something usable.

Implementation

Once the typeface was done I wanted to display it in settings I saw fit its personality. I wanted to bring out the charm and quaintness of the font to show applications of where it could live. Skyline can be used in a variety of ways and I would love to see it be used in branding or promotional pieces.

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