Introducing "Curb Appeal" Typeface

Original typeface design inspired by real estate and yard signs.

Curb Appeal original typeface design by Hollis, New Hampshire graphic designer Wendy Steckler

Billboard advertisement featuring new typeface designed by Wendy Steckler Designs.

The challenge was to create an original typeface within block-form constraints (no curves). The typeface was to stylistically relate to a theme or subject matter from everyday life.

THE DESIGN PROCESS

I drew inspiration from yard and political signs in my area. Living in New Hampshire, there is no shortage of either.

I was inspired by the short and wide stature, low cross-bar and slight lines of the metal frames.

I created a number of prototype sketches, starting with 6 letters by hand as a proof of concept.

Rough sketches were developed for representative capital letters, “A”,”B”,”C”,”P”,”Q” and “R”. I endeavored to mimic the aspects of the inspiration - with a boxy shape, thin lines and low cross-bars. I mirrored the treatment of the stroke of the R and tail of the Q for alignment and balance.

Letterform sketches generated in typeface development process by Wendy Steckler Designs

The letterforms were then transferred to grid paper and reviewed for balance and continuity, ensuring the requirement of no curves was maintained.

Letterform grid designs generated in typeface development process by Wendy Steckler Designs

The final process step was to draw in Illustrator and verify legibility at 24, 28 and 72 point scale.

Legibility test as part of typeface development process by Wendy Steckler Designs

THE FINAL DESIGN

Curb Appeal is a minimal, modular sans font highlighted by a ultra-modern design. Its geometric shape conveys strength and simplicity while the sans serif and modern lines express progress and innovation. Curb Appeal is ideal for titles and logos with constructivism or modernism messaging.