Grid Experimentation

After looking at previous designs for the book, I thought it would be interesting to create a design that had the title filling the page, similar to the first edition, but with a sans serif typeface.

It created quite a modern, clinical effect. The judge Jim Stoddart has in the past used a similar large sans serif as the a main focal point of his book designs, which suggests it can be considered a modern approach.

The type was then experimented with so that connections could be made between the letters. This meant it became more characterful and the need for guides and alignment became more prominent. This could be experimented further with to create shapes like binoculars or eyes with the circular letters, or even with blood drips instead of extended strips.

For the second experiment a similar typeface was used, but this time with a circular grid layout. This was to create a smoother, natural positioning for the type. It is similar to the previous cover design with clouds and minimal sans serif type. 

This aesthetic is similar to the original Marber designs for Penguin, the simplicity of the type allows a humble feeling to be conveyed, plus the artwork can become the main focus.

Finally, this was a grid design inspired by the shotgun design, which used very minimal text on a strip at the bottom of the design. This time I have used a serif typeface in order to convey the serious nature of the story and to explore a more classic approach to the design. Adobe Garamond Pro is quite outspoken, however having it small and organised in a hierarchy it becomes a balanced addition to the design.