Advanced Typographic Design - ISTD
The brief entails a radical reimagining of an out-of-copyright book in partnership with Fedrigoni, a leading paper manufacturer.
The challenge lies in utilizing typography to give the cult-classic, Dracula, a fresh perspective while preserving its original content.
Sample box filled with paper "keepsakes" from Jonathan Hawker's journey to Castle Dracula
Close-up of travel suitcase with luggage tag
The Context
This project's context is centered around the fundamental aspects of typography. In accordance with the brief, an out-of-copyright book had to be selected with the aim of reimagining an out-of-copyright book. I chose the cult-classic Dracula that was written by Bram Stoker in 1897, because it is a renowned novel in Gothic horror literature. Research shows that by using typography and experimental formats, the timeless narrative can be revitalized. Thus, it was essential to explore the expressive potential of typography in storytelling.
Close-up of sample box filled with paper samples or "keepsakes"
Hotel brochure and room key
Recipes collected by the protagonist whilst travelling (mock-up and flat layout)
The Client, Audience & Communication Goal
The client, Fedrigoni, a well-established paper manufacturer with a strong industry presence since 1888, primarily targets fashion labels, boutique printing houses, "niche" markets, and book designers and manufacturers. However, this project specifically focuses on book manufacturers. The communication goal is to contemporize Dracula while commemorating the 135-year anniversary of Fedrigoni. Through this, the project aims to convey that this brand offers a diverse audience a wide range of high-quality products for creative use.
Flictional letters written by Jonothan Hawker to his wife, Mina
Flat layout of postcard sent from Castle Dracula
The Strategy
The creative strategy was to create a visually captivating layout that breathes new life into the iconic work of Gothic horror literature by infusing it with a fresh perspective in celebration of Fedrigoni’s 135 years of paper manufacturing. The new design evokes a foreboding atmosphere, while encapsulating the audience’s attention and providing them with an educational experience that offers viewers tangible "samples" of Fedrigoni's products.
Fictional train tickets
Flat layout of train tickets showcasing vector-based stamps
Flat layout of coach tickets and stamps
The Concept
The concept aims to take a unique approach to reiterating Bram Stoker’s 1897 "Dracula" by transforming it into a visually captivating travel case filled with paper "keepsakes" collected by the book's protagonist, Jonathan Hawker, on his journey to Castle Dracula. The events that transpire in the book will be used to create interactive applications like train tickets, letters, and journal entries. This approach seeks to offer readers an engaging and interactive reading experience, while also functioning as a limited-edition sample box showcasing Fedrigoni's top-quality paper products.
Vector based stamps used throughout project
Fictional letter with envelope written by Count Dracula
Fictional business card of Dracula's chaffeur services
Flat layout of business card
The Media & Visual Strategy
The end result is various Gothic horror elements combined with the characteristics of a sample box, as well as “keepsakes” such as menu’s, room keys and brochures. This unique approach not only commemorates Fedrigoni’s most esteemed products, but also enables readers to immerse themselves in the narrator’s journey. Each application has been labelled with a number, as well as tag indicating what type of paper was used. By rearranging the pages in a numerical order, the viewer will read the story from the beginning.
Rosary and case file presented to Jonathan Hawker
