Joe Leadbeater
01 / 03
Contemporary Japanese Design
OUGD505
Studio Brief 1
Final Boards
Research
was inspired by traditional Japanese design, so the publication was designed to mimick this, as seen by a small bodycopy point size, and the vast use of negative space.
Three areas of Japanese design were looked into; Graphic, Interior & Product design. Other options were considered (eg. fashion, or architecture), but I wanted to show multiple examples for each within the 16 page book.
There was also a correlation with both traditional and contemporary Japanese design using raw materials. This has been reflected in the choice of stock, with the use of two neutral tones of sugar paper.
Concept After gathering such a vast amount of research, it became apparent that there is a clear Japanese design style, across a multitude of platforms and media. Mimimalism
Japanese stab stitchi binding has also been used to reflect Japanese tradition and innovation. Japanese type was included so the book could be understood by both an English and Japanese audience. The language can be written from up to down (traditionally), as well as the newly westernised left to right. Both were used to emphasize Japan’s strong links to it’s traditional culture, but also a society willing to change.
Joe Leadbeater
02 / 03
Contemporary Japanese Design
OUGD505
A classic serif typeface was chosen to emphasize quality, style, tradition and a Japanese design style tone of voice. The layout and point size makes the translation between each header / bodycopy obvious.
Studio Brief 1
Final Boards
Joe Leadbeater
03 / 03
Contemporary Japanese Design
OUGD505
Packaging The packaging was kept simple and minimal, reflecting the publication. A 300gsm black stock was used to create a clear different between the thinner, almost undyed sugapaper stock. It was also used to to emphasize the vinyl lettering on the front, spelling ‘Contemporary Japanese Design’, written in the traditional reading format. The vinyl also adds a tactile quality to the packaging, mimicking the same contrast in materials as often seen with both traditional & contemporary Japanese design.
Studio Brief 1
Final Boards