ARCH-ABLE: A Digital Fabrication Friendly Typeface

Revolutionizing 3D Typography with Rounded Corners

Inspired by the booming digital fabrication DIY culture in Japan, Miki and Mitsuhashi recognized the need for a beginner-friendly typeface that would be compatible with various digital fabrication tools. They wanted to provide users with the ability to create original stencil typefaces for their projects, without the limitations imposed by traditional typefaces.

ARCH-ABLE stands out from other typefaces with its digital fabrication-friendly features. The stencil-style shapes and rounded corners of ARCH-ABLE ensure that all corners can be easily engraved, both inside and outside. This design choice allows for compatibility with all drill bits, laser cutters, and other tools commonly used in digital fabrication. The rounded corners also make the reproduction process more comfortable and efficient for users.

The realization of ARCH-ABLE involved solving several technical challenges. Traditional stencil typefaces often have right-angle corners that cannot be fully engraved, leading to incomplete and unsatisfactory results. Miki and Mitsuhashi meticulously designed ARCH-ABLE with rounded corners, specifically tailored for all drill bits. This attention to detail ensures that every corner can be reached and perfectly fit, resulting in flawless 3D typography.

ARCH-ABLE consists of 26 letters, 10 numbers, and 26 symbols, providing a comprehensive set of characters for creators to work with. Its geometric and stylish design adds a touch of sophistication to any project, while maintaining the simplicity and clarity necessary for effective communication.

This groundbreaking typeface was developed as part of the ARCH-ABLE project, which took place from November 2018 to January 2020 in Tokyo, Japan. The designers, Miki and Mitsuhashi, were driven by their conversations with architects who struggled to engrave corners using existing typefaces. Their research led them to the realization that a rounded-corner stencil typeface was essential for digital fabrication creators.

ARCH-ABLE has garnered recognition and acclaim, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in 2020 in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. ARCH-ABLE's digital fabrication-friendly features contribute to improving the quality of life for creators and making the world a better place.

With ARCH-ABLE, Miki and Mitsuhashi have revolutionized the world of 3D typography, providing a user-friendly and versatile typeface that empowers creators in the digital fabrication realm. By addressing the challenges of engraving corners and ensuring compatibility with various tools, ARCH-ABLE opens up new possibilities for designers and architects to bring their visions to life.