PDF Archive

Avenir

x heigh
quite big

light oblique /book oblique /roman
/oblique /medium oblique /heavy
oblique /black oblique.

For example, the Light and Book weights are similar,
but Book is most appropriate for text blocks while the
Light is better for adding a contrasting element
(perhaps a heading) to a heavier weight. These
weight selections also allow for optimal results under
varied printing conditions.
The bold and extra bold weights of Avenir are good
for emphasis with the light, book, and medium
weights.
Typeface Identifying Characteristics:
• horizontal tail on Q
• squared-off end to G with bar extending to left and
flat section below
• double-story a
• single-story g
• flat top vertices, pointed bottom vertex on M.

ascenders
absence of
contrast

vertical
axis

narrows

Futura “a”

x height

geometric
shapes

descenders

closed aperture

Sources: 1)typedia.com/explore/typeface/avenir ;2)rightreading.com/typehead/avenir.htm

Avenir was designed by Adrian Frutiger and
released by Linotype-Hell AG in 1988. The design is
based on two earlier sans serif typefaces, Erbar and
Futura. Frutiger has described Avenir as a geometric
sans serif with a human touch, unlike the cold
mechanical flavor of Futura. Avenir is unusual in that it
has weights that are similar, but each is designed for a
different purpose.

Compared to Futura, the x-height and the aperture
are bigger(but aperture still seems closed). Whereas
V shapes (A, M, N, V, W, etc.) are pointed in Futura,
they are squared off in Avenir.The j and y have curved
rather than straight tails; the Q has a horizontal tail.
Unlike Futura's ball and stick a, the Avenir a is more
conventional-and more legible.