Library
Timeline
Documentation
Lucida Typeface
Designers
Kris Holmes
Chuck Bigelow
Method
type design
Year

1984

The Lucida typeface family, created by Charles Bigelow and Kris Holmes, revolutionized digital typography as the first font family designed specifically for low-resolution screens and printers. Drawing on Roman and Renaissance influences, Lucida emphasized clarity through features like a large x-height for readability at small sizes, open counter-forms to reduce letter confusion, and generous spacing inspired by early Roman typefaces. Its designs were further refined using digital precision tools like Ikarus software, ensuring uniformity and adaptability across devices. Lucida’s bold innovation in weight, contrast, and spacing has ensured its enduring versatility in digital and print media, influencing interfaces like Apple macOS, Windows, and Plan 9. The name reflects its goal of “light and clarity,“ making it a cornerstone in modern typography. (hs)

Object views
Sources
north_east Interview with Charles Bigelow north_east How and Why We Designed Lucida
Objects by Kris Holmes
all Objects by Kris Holmes north_east
Objects by Chuck Bigelow
all Objects by Chuck Bigelow north_east
Method → type design
Method type design north_east
Period around 1984
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