Architype New York: Typographic Illustrations of the City's Architecture

An Exploration of Form, History, and Lettering

Walking through the streets of New York, one is constantly surrounded by a juxtaposition of historical landmarks and contemporary structures. Architype NY was born out of a deep appreciation for the city's architectural diversity and a passion for lettering. It is a celebration of the stories and surprises that lie within the buildings of New York.

What sets Architype NY apart is its meticulous attention to detail and the fusion of architectural form with typographic design. Each illustration is a union of the building's physical characteristics and its historical significance. Qian Sun delves into extensive research to uncover the building's location, architects, design details, and even its unofficial histories. This wealth of information is then translated into a visually stunning typographic representation.

The process begins with pen and ink on paper, where the intricate details of each building are meticulously hand-drawn. These initial sketches are then scanned and digitally mastered for reproduction. The final result is a series of captivating illustrations that invite viewers to read the structures and discover their stories.

Architype NY challenges the limitations of lettering as imagery, proving that typography can be a powerful tool for representing architectural form. The illustrations capture the essence of each building, allowing viewers to gain a deeper appreciation for the architecture of New York. From the historical context to the architects' vision, every aspect is carefully woven into the design.

Whether it's a well-known landmark or a hidden gem, Architype NY showcases the architectural wonders of New York City. The illustrations range from capturing the most iconic views of the structures to adopting a graphic approach reminiscent of architectural blueprints. Each piece is accompanied by descriptive text that provides historical and architectural context, further enriching the viewer's experience.

Since its inception in 2016, Architype NY has become an ongoing project that continues to explore and celebrate the architectural heritage of New York City. Qian Sun's dedication to research and creativity has resulted in a series of artworks that not only captivate the eye but also educate and inspire.

Architype NY has been recognized for its outstanding creativity and ingenuity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in 2019. This prestigious award honors designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills while contributing to quality of life improvements. Architype NY truly makes the world a better place by showcasing the beauty and significance of New York's architecture.