1st November 2016

Between: three typefaces in one

‘To me, Between is like an egg. It can be prepared a number of different ways based on the needs of the chef, and every form it takes can be pleasing to consume.’

Akira Koyabashi isn’t just a hungry man with a penchant for a well-turned metaphor, he’s also a talented type designer with 53 font families to his name. The latest is one of his most interesting – and versatile – yet: a single typeface with three states, which means it can effortlessly slip into different voices, moods or energy levels, depending on what you want to use it for.

If you’re a graphic designer, you’re probably a little bit excited now.

Overall, Between is a sort of mash-up between the clarity of modern industrial and the warmth of humanist san serif – the latter of which is having a global moment right now – but its genius lies in its adaptability.

If you want something modern and professional, maybe a little bit masculine, Between 1 can step up to the plate. Need a more organic, approachable feel? Reach for friendly, high-clarity Between 2. Prefer something playful? Between 3 has the easy-going, chirpily energetic vibe you’re after.

Although Between’s variants do play well with other typefaces, its arrival means that you’re less likely to have to go ferreting around the font library if you want your subheads and your body copy to look distinct, or if you’re trying to preserve consistency across a brand portfolio while differentiating the sub brands within it.

Take a look below, and if you like what you see, you can get your digital hands on Between at monotype.com and shares your thoughts via the #MeetBetween hashtag on Twitter, Instagram and the rest.

Or you can cook yourself an egg. You’ll be satisfied either way.