This project explores typographic hierarchy through the design of three book covers measuring 7"X10" with a 1" spine. Each design explores different hierarchical orders and visual concepts, creating a range of proposals. Some constraints in this project are that each design is limited to two Pantone colors on white paper, shapes, and the provided copy. A goal of this project is to mirror the ideas and craft of a "master typographer" without directly copying the stylistic choices of Jan Tschichold, the book's subject. Throughout these designs I focus on ideas of practicality and organization while emphasizing the type itself as the prominent feature. You can see more images from the process of this project here.
Proposal 1: This design uses typographic rules and a single typeface, DIN, with the goal of creating an academic appearance. The angled rule on the back cover is a nod to Tschichold's ideas on New Typography and breaks away from the more rigid design on the front cover. The spine is left more ambiguous showing only a small bit of the rule from the back cover to create interaction between the different planes. The least ornamented of the designs, a balanced composition is created by the scale and placement of type.
Proposal 2: This design uses type over shapes with bold contrast in typeface, size, and color to create a stark hierarchy. The book's title, "Jan Tschichold, Master Typographer: His Life, Work and Legacy" is set on the spine, creating an informative entry point if viewed from a bookshelf while the cover uses a more experimental hierarchy by focusing on the publisher. Through its angle and placement, the rectangle on the back cover is intended to be read more like a representation of a standard size sheet of paper, which Tschichold argued should be used for printed matter.
Proposal 3: This design uses two versions of DIN and changes in size, case and color to create contrast within the type. The type on the cover is aligned to the left creating a rag which is emphasized by the yellow shape. This shape is mirrored on the back to remove it from the type, making it more abstract while still referencing typography. Each shape extends across the spine and on to the other side of the book, linking each plane of the design to create interaction with the entire book. The large yellow shapes also provide a sort of grid to align different elements of the composition with. Yellow was used to create something bright and attractive through a large shift in saturation and a small shift in value from the shapes to the white background.
This detail image highlights the spine design created by the shapes on the front and back covers bleeding over the edge.
A goal of this design was to find a balance between ornamentation and practicality, resulting in something clear, legible, and attractive to a potential reader.
Another focus throughout this design is the alignment of type and shapes on each plane of the book, creating a sense of purpose and organization.
In addition to the digital mockups above, we created physical mockups with chipboard, foam board, and laser prints. (not pictured)
