DIATOMIC is an uppercase modular typeface designed for the company Airbnb. The concept behind the aesthetic of this typeface takes inspiration from the sacred geometry visuals of a specific type of algae called Diatoms. Diatoms are algae that grow on spider crabs and live on their bodies through a mutualistic relationship, where two organisms of different species coexist and each benefit from the other. This sort of host/guest relationship is symbolic of the Airbnb community that literally hosts individuals from around the world; anyone is able to open their arms (and doors) to allow travelers a place to stay.
The process of creating this typeface began with a grid, followed by the taking of elements from the diatoms and using them as workable modules into the skeleton of each letter. The entire alphabet was crafted using a limited amount of modules, accompanied by straight and curved lines.
