Background
PuzzleType is a custom display typeface built entirely from full square units arranged in a strict 4×4 grid. The system was inspired by puzzles, retro arcade graphics, LED scoreboards, and LEGO-style building logic. By embracing constraints, the project explores how minimal components can produce recognizable, expressive letterforms that scale across digital and print contexts.
Design Problem
Create a cohesive alphabet and numeral set that is playful yet structured, highly legible at display sizes, and flexible enough to work in multiple environments, from editorial layouts and posters to screens, counters, and scoreboards, while retaining a strong, ownable visual rhythm.
Design Solution
PuzzleType delivers a bold, geometric voice with clear rhythm and repeatable logic. The strict grid yields instantly readable forms, while the anchor rule preserves stability in complex letters. Fixed- width numerals and colon separators support timers, scores, and stats. The accompanying guide- line defines construction, exceptions, anatomy, and usage, and demonstrates adaptability through cohesive applications, posters, digital banners, wordmarks, and a sports scoreboard, maintaining a consistent, modern, and playful identity.
Mood board
Retro gaming, LED scoreboards, and modular building systems.
Goal
Explore how constraint-driven design can produce creativity.
Influences
Karl Gerstner’s grid theories, pixel typography, and Lego block logic.
Design through limitation
Simplicity builds rhythm.
Inside the Structure
Uppercase Alphabet
Numerals
Refinement & Finding Balance
Lego
Nintendo Switch
Apple Vision / AR Interface
Minecraft Wordmark Test
Brand Collateral
Flyer Design
Scoreboard
Applications & Impact
PuzzleType demonstrates how grid-based thinking can merge structure and creativity. Its adaptability across mediums—from playful LEGO blocks to immersive digital interfaces—proves how design constraints can foster innovation.
