Typography in Design: How to Build Visual Hierarchy

Why Letterforms Shape More Than Just Words

More Than Just Pretty Fonts

Typography is not an afterthought, it’s the backbone of visual communication. It defines what gets noticed, how fast it’s read, and how your design feels.

Good typography creates structure, rhythm, and clarity. Bad typography? It creates confusion – or gets ignored entirely.

What Is Visual Hierarchy?

Visual hierarchy is the system that guides how we absorb information. Typography is one of the most powerful ways to control this flow.

It tells us:

• What to read first

• What to read next

• What we might skip  and that’s okay

When hierarchy is strong, it’s almost invisible – your eyes naturally follow the intended path.

The Core Tools of Typographic Hierarchy

1. Size & Weight

Headlines are bold and prominent. Subheadings guide. Body copy supports.

2. Typeface Choice

Combining different font styles (e.g., serif + sans serif) creates clear contrast.

3. Spacing

Line height, letter spacing, and generous margins enhance readability.

4. Color & Style

Color adds emphasis, but only if used sparingly and with intent.

Common Typography Mistakes to Avoid

• Using too many fonts at once

• No distinction between heading levels

• Overly tight or loose line spacing

• Flat layouts where everything looks the same

Pro tip: Squint at your design. If you can still tell what’s most important, your hierarchy is working.

How We Use Typography in the Studio

In our studio, typography often comes before the visuals, not after. It lays the foundation for everything else.

We use it to:

• Define brand voice in logos

• Create readability and flow in editorial layouts

• Maintain unity across corporate design systems

From refined and classic to bold and modern – every brand gets its own typographic personality.

Conclusion: Type Is Design

Typography is more than style, it’s functional design at its core.

It speaks, guides, and shapes emotion – all without needing images.

If your goal is to tell a story through design, start with type.

Because great typography isn’t just seen, it’s felt.