Gryphon Typography
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Typefaces
Overview
Typography is an essential but often overlooked aspect of a brand’s visual identity. Consistent typography is a simple yet powerful way to build brand equity. The smallest typographic details can convey vastly different messages and emotions.
Unlike other examples of primary and secondary assets, there is no mandate to utilize our primary typeface over our secondary typeface. Our secondary typeface is more versatile and better suited to many use cases. Our primary typeface was used as the base to create our customized logos and wordmarks, and as such, will always be a focal point of our branded materials. In this way, Russo One acts as our primary typeface. DM Sans compliments Russo One, while offering greater versatility. Both typefaces are intended for both digital and print use.
As of June 1, 2025 we ask that all University of Guelph faculty, staff, departments, and merchandise discontinue using the following fonts: Helvetica Neue, Serpentine, Bembo and Avenir Next.
Please only use the two approved open-source fonts listed here. See below for more details on how to best utilize our primary and secondary typefaces.
Primary Typeface: Russo One
Russo One is a sans-serif typeface. This style of typeface blends modern impact and digital accessibility. It works best for larger-scale applications such as headlines. Avoid using Russo One for smaller applications, or lengthy blocks of text.
Secondary Typeface: DM Sans
DM Sans is a clean, simple, sans-serif typeface that offers excellent versatility. It can be utilized in any application as a stand-alone typeface, or in conjunction with Russo One.
Downloading and Installing Fonts
Once you have downloaded the fonts using the links provided above, you will need to install them onto your computer.
Type Accessibility And Sizing
Sizing
Size is a critical component of typography. If our type is too big, it feels cumbersome and overwhelming. If it is too small, it becomes illegible or goes unnoticed altogether. Be sure to consider the following when sizing your type:
Fonts below 10pt size (print) or 12px high (digital) are inaccessible and must be avoided.
For digital applications, consider how your typography will function across various devices, such as desktop computers, tablets, and mobile phones.
When designing for print, consider the font size, viewing distance, and printing specifications. When working with a commercial printer, look for guidance from print and production experts, as they will know what works best for their processes.
Accessible Type
All content must be presented in an accessible way to ensure all members of our community can quickly and clearly understand messaging. To align with AODA standards and ensure high quality typography, be sure to consider the following:
- Prioritize clear space and avoid large blocks of text
- Break content into sections and use clear headings
- Avoid using too many fonts, sizes, colours and weights within one design
- Only use all caps for titles and headlines
- Do not italicize essential information
- Use bolded fonts sparingly for emphasis
- Avoid placing text over busy or complex backgrounds
- Fonts below 10pt size (print) or 12px high (digital) are inaccessible and must be avoided
For more information on building accessible PDFs, word documents, and more, please reach out to brandguide@uoguelph.ca.
