A typeface is like a chair

1. 01A page is like a room, type is like furniture, and a typeface is like a chair
2. 02Chairs and typefaces are designed to fulfill a purpose
3. 03The user knows immediately when they aren't right for the purpose, though they may not be able to explain why
4. 04Furniture design and typeface design are crafts
5. 05Both crafts require good taste
6. 06Both crafts require technical proficiency
7. 07For most purposes, both crafts require restraint
8. 08A chair or typeface can be decorative to varying degrees but must be functional
9. 09The best chairs and typefaces have an appropriate balance of form and function
10. 10Very small changes in proportion make a big difference