Typeface Selection

When working on the redesign for my site (2023), I spent a fair bit of time thinking about the typeface I wanted to use. I wanted something that was:

  • Clean: Crisp and easy to read
  • Simple: Stays out of the way
  • Elegant: Stylish, but refined

I was looking for the "black t-shirt" of typefaces. I wanted something that would be easy to read, and not distract from the content. Generally informal, but able to be used in a formal setting.

Though, sort of how the best black t-shirt is one that's fitted well for you, I did want something with a bit of uniqueness to it. I didn't want to use a typeface that's ubiquitous. My site design is pretty minimalist, so I felt like a more unique typeface will help it stand out in a subdued way that didn't get in the way of the content itself.

Considerations

The following typefaces are the main ones I considered. Originally I was looking for a variable font, but ended up opting for a more simple serif, Editorial New.

TypefaceVariablePriceNotes
Editorial New Editorial New specimen🙅$100I liked the serif feel. My site is really text heavy, and kinda wanted a typesetting that was reminiscent of physical books and newspaper. This felt like it and was pretty quickly sold.
Inter Inter specimen✅$0Great font, love how it looks. Ultimately I wanted something more unique.
GT Alpina GT Alpina specimen🙅$240I liked this typeface, and was close to using it. But, ultimately the touch of "handwritten"-ness to it from the circular terminators felt like it didn't match the personality I was going for.