Students explore a series of typographic monograms inspired by the architectural features of iconic buildings in Los Angeles, merging historical design practices with modern typographic exploration. Each monogram, carefully crafted from two or three letters representing the initials of the building's name, reflects the unique architectural forms and spatial qualities of the structures that inspired them. By examining the interplay between form and counter-form, each design reflects the building’s distinct structural elements, from bold lines to intricate voids, creating a harmonious balance between positive and negative space. This project invites us to rethink how typography, much like architecture, is a study of the spaces we inhabit—where the tangible and intangible, the visible and invisible, work together to shape our experience of identity and place. Through these typographic compositions, we are reminded that every form is defined by its counterpart: the empty space that surrounds and gives it meaning.
Project completed for Typography I, Spring 25.
Instructor: Anika Sarin.
Los Angeles Theatre by Jonah St Hernandez
6th Street Bridge by Nayely Castillo
Pasadena City Hall by Zelyna Espinosa
Grand Arts by Irena Azaryan
Walt Disney Concert Hall by Roman Boyajyan
Police Museum by Anahid Karapetian
The Broad by Japheth Sanchez
Wilshire Colonnade by Solar Nguyen
Chinese Evangelical Church by Natalie Cao
Petersen Automotive Museum by Nha Ky Luong
BMO Stadium by Brandon Cayetano
LA Union Station by Jialin Zheng
The Broad by Tom Nguyen
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church by Vanessa Tinoco
The Grand by Gehry by Jason Daley
Mariachi Plaza Gazebo by Red Nguyen
Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church by Daniela Ramos
Audrey Irmas Pavillion by Michelle Jacinto