Grid Systems

Swiss Design is often referred to as the International Typographic Style. This design came about around the 1940s and 50s and it was the foundation to much of today’s design influences and the progression of graphic design since. Josef Müller-Brockmann could possibly be the one of the most known Swiss designers, who was and still is a huge influence to many. A quote by Müller-Brochmann reads: “The grid system is an aid, not a guarantee. It permits a number of possible uses and each
designer can look for a solution appropriate to his
personal style. But one must learn how to use the
grid; it is an art that requires practice.” (The Grid System, 2012). Müller-Brochmann along with other Swiss designers and typographers created the grid systems which have turned out to be very successful within the design industry. The Grid System photograph below is a screen shot of a website about Swiss design which allows you to view the grids on which the website was designed. Design developed greatly thanks to the findings and invention of artists such as Müller-Brochmann. Grid systems mean we don’t have to worry about making books, leaflets, newspapers and magazines consistent as the design of the grid has done it all for us. Josef Müller-Brochmann is seen as a pioneer of the simplicity and preciseness of Swiss typography.

The Grid System website - Grid on show, 2012