Arkitekt

Store Norske Arkitekt is a geometric typeface based on Norwegian functionalist architecture; the shapes of its buildings and the lettering found on them. The first functionalist building in the Nordic countries, was Restaurant Skansen in Oslo (Lars Backer, 1927). Around the same time Trygve M. Davidsen was developing a geometric lettering alphabet, later published in his textbook Typografisk Skissering (1933). Other notable examples are Davidsen’s lettering for Møre Landbruksselskaps Jubileumsutstilling (1931), and Per Grieg’s lettering on Bergens Sjøfartsmuseum (1927). The functionalists wanted their design to be predominantly determined by practical considerations, with the intention to exclude anything visually redundant. Pure forms, and form should follow function. It should not be a style, but a method. But even with that aim, many of the buildings had distinct common attributes. Simple geometric features easy to imitate regardless of understanding their purpose. The superficial imitations that arose, were referred to as Funkis. It seems that the most successful functionalist buildings, were designed by the generation of architects trained in neoclassical architecture. With a more rooted functional perspective, and a deeper understanding of proportion and rhythm, they were better at solving complex problems with simple forms. Often including erratic attributes, resulting in more spirited and vibrant buildings. In a similar manner, the aim of Store Norske Arkitekt was to make a typeface within the functionalist language, but still rooted in the knowledge of genres that came before it. Further notable examples Norwegian functionalist buildings include Ekebergrestauranten (Lars Backer, 1929), Kunstnernes Hus (Gudolf Blakstad, 1930), Hvalstrand Bad (André E. Peters, 1934), and Kalmarhuset (Leif Grung, 1936). Other notable local architects of the era were Arne Korsmo, Sverre Aasland, Herman Munthe-Kaas and Eindride Slaatto. [Specimen PDF / instagram.com]