Revolutionizing Book Design: Stet by Alma Kamal

Transforming the Reading Experience with Innovative Design

Stet was born out of a need to make the design of books as exciting as their content. Despite the transformation of reading habits from linear to non-linear due to the internet, the design of printed books has remained static for decades. Kamal sought to change this, proposing a new way to design books that would align with modern reading habits.

The project's unique properties lie in its innovative approach to book design. Stet aims to redefine the traditional form of printed books to encourage more people to read print, particularly in important subjects like Humanities. The project includes two redesigned books, promotional and educational booklets, a website, and a biannual publication, all designed using Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Wix.

Stet's design process was meticulous and thoughtful. Kamal began with an intensive research phase, exploring the environmental, economical, social, cultural, political, and personal impacts of the topic. She then identified her audience and gathered insights from a group of 12 people. After studying competitors and realizing that none of them were redesigning the entire book, not just the cover, Kamal decided to take Stet in this unique direction.

The project faced several design challenges. One of the main challenges was to create a non-linear book that offered different levels of reading, allowing the reader to choose how they wanted to approach the information. Another challenge was to design an experimental book that divided the content into sections of stories, experiments, main ideas, definitions, and biographies, offering a fragmented reading experience similar to the internet.

Stet's innovative approach to book design has not gone unnoticed. The project was awarded Silver in A' Print and Published Media Design Award in 2021, a prestigious accolade given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. This recognition underscores Stet's contribution to reshaping the future of book design.