Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Project:
Culture and Climate Change: Recordings
, topic produced for
The Open University, UK, 2011
Design:
Hyperkit, London
Hyperkit are a London-based design studio founded in 2001 by Kate Sclater and Tim
Balaam. They describe their work as 'good-natured, useful design, often bringing to-
gether a love of material, process and functionality'. Hyperkit produce work across a
variety of platforms including print, digital, exhibition and interiors. Here we feature
a printed editorial outcome.
Overview
Culture and Climate Change: Recordings
is a topic produced for The Open
University, the largest distance learning university in the UK. Kate Sclater describes
the project: 'The subject of this topic is cultural responses to climate change. The
challenge of the brief was to create a publication that, whilst being made up solely of
text, was visually engaging. It had to be clearly laid out and easy to read, but with a
personality that reflected the nature of the content.'
The topic contains a mix of essays, transcripts and information, with no images, only
text. The largest section of the topic features transcripts of four discussions that took
place between artists, academics, producers and journalists. Each discussion includes
mention of various exhibitions, performances and publications, most of which needed
expanding upon through the use of fairly lengthy footnotes. The editors were keen to
give the footnotes a presence alongside the main text, not simply list them at the back
of the volume.
Approach
Hyperkit took on board these intentions. Their response was to create structure within
the pages through the use of a grid, typefaces and limited colour; these 'tools' com-
bined to create an effective hierarchy. Different typefaces were selected and applied
to distinguish content type; this helps the reader navigate the information effectively,
but also provides visual interest and personality to the overall piece.
To communicate the fact that the topic is intended to be a practical resource, the de-
signers decided to use a soft cover reminiscent of a textbook, with a cloth spine to add
interest. They also listed the names of all the contributors on the cover. Kate explains,
'Using a palette restricted to two colours, we employed various techniques to navigate
