Kubus is a bespoke typeface inspired by the Cube Houses of Rotterdam. The residential complex, designed by architect Piet Blom, encourages a communcal way of living with contact and communication between residents as a focal point.

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The typeface can be considered geometrical, as it celebrates the Cube Houses' angularity. The glyphs have wide counters - in contrast with narrows stems and strokes - inspired by "the spaces in between". Such spaces are at the core of the building's character, bringing openness and a sense of communal space.

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The type specimens are presented through a playful narrative, representative of the building and the type itself. In the end, it led the project into unexpected directions, towards the development of illustrations and animation.

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The brief was part of a collaboration between the Design department at the Manchester School of Art and the Typeface Design studio, Dalton Maag. The outcomes of the project were exhibited later on at the modernist in Manchester. The exhibition allowed for a side project to take place, which included the curation of the space and the creation of branding materials for the event.

special thanks