Type Design FF Nort™ by Monotype®
The revolutionary signage system by Jock Kinneir and Margaret Calvert for the first UK motorway in the 1950s is considered an iconic masterpiece in information design. This globally influential project seamlessly integrates graphics, colours, and typography, establishing a benchmark for street signage worldwide.
FF Nort™ is a reinterpretation of the typeface from this historic project. Modernised to honour the values of readability and timelessness in a contemporary context.
Embark on a journey into the enduring brilliance of a system that serves as a timeless testament to formal intellect and unwavering quality. The determination and excellence that have withstood the test of time form the driving force behind the award-winning FF Nort™, seamlessly carrying the spirit of innovation from the golden era of design into the present day.
Returning to simplicity and purity, FF Nort™ transcends mere aesthetics by integrating usability into its core essence. As a typeface, it not only shapes environments but also influences well-being. Recognising type as a functional tool rather than a purely decorative piece of art, the design remains neutral, focusing on the essential without becoming an end in itself. Notably, FF Nort™ has been honoured with a Bronze Award by the New York Art Directors Club.
FF Nort™ seamlessly combines tradition with innovation, marrying classicism and humanism. The sharp inlets in the lowercase not only prevent excessive blackening but also improve legibility with an asymmetrical internal form for each letter. The interplay of round forms and sharp terminations establishes a visual rhythm, adding tension and significantly boosting reading speed to the word picture.
With a commanding x-height, FF Nort™ demands attention. The contours, proportions, and distinctive features are meticulously harmonised, resulting in a playful and intricate overall image.
FF Nort™ caters to a diverse linguistic spectrum, supporting 109 languages. Going beyond the Latin base, it seamlessly extends its design character to Cyrillic and Greek, proving invaluable for companies communicating across Europe.
Each of the eight weights in the FF Nort™ family possesses distinctive qualities. The lighter weights exude gentleness, preciousness, and elegance, while the bolder weights command a robust and striking presence. Offering options like italics, small caps, alternative characters, and a plethora of special characters, FF Nort™ opens up a multitude of design possibilities.
Despite its striking aesthetics, the font family effortlessly captivates in regular text sizes. Its formal attributes make FF Nort™ ideal for on-screen applications, where a large x-height, compact body, and open counters contribute to excellent display, particularly in small sizes and challenging conditions.
