Sans Contrasted Igso 5 is a very bold, normal width, very high contrast, upright, tall x-height font.
Keywords: headlines, posters, logotypes, packaging, editorial display, art deco, dramatic, fashion, retro, theatrical, display impact, deco revival, branding, stencil motif, graphic texture, stencil-like, geometric, modular, compressed caps, sharp joins.
This typeface is built from bold, blocky forms sliced by thin internal cuts that create a stencil-like, two-tone rhythm. The contrast is expressed less through tapered strokes and more through dramatic negative-space channels that run vertically and curve through bowls, giving many letters a split, inlaid look. Capitals lean toward tall, display proportions with flat terminals and largely geometric construction, while lowercase maintains a large x-height and simplified shapes with occasional hooked or looping details (notably in j, y, and some curves). Overall spacing and color are assertive and poster-ready, with a consistent system of cut-ins that repeats across rounds (O/Q/0/8/9) and straight-sided forms (B/D/P/R).
Best suited for large sizes where the internal cutouts and split bowls can be clearly resolved—headlines, posters, magazine covers, packaging, and brand marks. It can also work for short editorial subheads or pull quotes when you want a strong graphic voice, but it’s less appropriate for long-form text where the dense weight and internal cuts may compete with readability.
The feel is bold and stylized, evoking early-20th-century deco poster lettering and modern luxury branding at the same time. The high drama of the internal cuts adds a theatrical, high-fashion tone, while the geometric scaffolding keeps it clean and contemporary. It reads as confident and attention-seeking rather than neutral or utilitarian.
The design appears intended to reinterpret geometric sans display forms through a consistent system of carved-out counters and inlaid strokes, maximizing impact and recognizability. Its proportions and repeated cut motif suggest a focus on brandable shapes and strong poster color rather than neutral text setting.
Round characters often show a distinctive vertical ‘spine’ created by the internal cut, producing an eye-catching contrast stripe. Several glyphs use asymmetrical or slightly quirky details (for example, the K’s angled join and the lowercase j/y tails), which adds personality but also reinforces its display orientation.