Tabu: A Versatile Typeface for Creative Branding
It’s a typical Monday morning, and I’m staring at my blank brand board, ready to tackle a new client project. This time, it’s for a small boutique that sells handmade skincare products. The owner wants something elegant yet approachable—something that feels personal but still professional. As I start sketching out some logo ideas, I find myself reaching for the same font I’ve been using for a few projects now: Tabu.
Tabu is an amazing display typeface that brings a unique energy to any design. It comes in three versions: decorative, black, and symbols. What I love most about it is how it can be combined perfectly with other fonts to create a cohesive visual language. Whether I’m working on a logo, packaging, or social media graphics, Tabu always feels like the right choice.
The First Impressions
I began by testing Tabu on a few rough logo drafts. The decorative version immediately caught my eye—it has a playful yet refined feel that fits well with the boutique’s aesthetic. I paired it with a simple sans serif font for the tagline, creating a balance between bold and clean. The result was something that felt both modern and inviting.
One of the first things I noticed about Tabu is its personality. It has a slight curve to its lines, giving it a sense of movement and warmth. It’s not too ornate, which makes it versatile enough to work in different contexts. The black version, on the other hand, is more dramatic and powerful, making it ideal for headlines or accent text.
Testing in Real Projects
As I moved into the branding phase, I used Tabu for the main logo and all primary headings. The decorative style worked beautifully on the storefront sign, adding a touch of character without overwhelming the message. On business cards and packaging, I paired it with a serif font to maintain readability while keeping the design visually interesting.
What I found particularly useful was the symbols version of Tabu. It allowed me to add subtle details to product labels and social media posts, enhancing the overall visual appeal without being too distracting. For example, I used it to create a custom icon for their signature product line, which helped reinforce brand identity across different touchpoints.
When it came to web design, I used the black version of Tabu for the homepage hero section. Its strong presence made the headline pop, while still maintaining a level of sophistication that aligned with the brand’s values. I also tested it on Instagram posts and flyers, where its legibility and visual impact were equally impressive.
Font Pairing and Design Flexibility
Tabu is a great example of a font that can adapt to various design styles. In this project, I paired it with a modern sans serif font for body text, ensuring clarity and consistency. For editorial design elements like brochures and posters, I used a script font to complement Tabu’s decorative flair, creating a dynamic contrast that kept the design engaging.
One thing I appreciate about Tabu is its range of weights and alternates. It allows for flexibility when designing for different mediums. For instance, the lighter weights are perfect for short-form text like tags and labels, while the bolder versions work well for headlines and logos.
Another consideration was multilingual support. Since the boutique plans to expand its reach, having a font that works across languages was crucial. Tabu’s versatility in this regard made it an excellent choice for long-term brand development.
Practical Advice for Designers
If you’re considering using Tabu for your next project, I recommend testing it early in the design process. Start by applying it to key elements like logos, headers, and call-to-action buttons. Observe how it interacts with other typography choices and whether it maintains readability in different sizes and formats.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with combinations. Tabu works best when paired with fonts that have a contrasting style—whether it’s a minimalist sans serif or a classic serif. This creates a visual hierarchy that guides the viewer’s attention effectively.
Also, make sure to check the font’s licensing options. If you’re working on a commercial project, having access to commercial use rights is essential. Tabu offers clear licensing terms, which is a big plus for designers who need to ensure their work is legally sound.
Final Thoughts on Tabu
Working with Tabu has been a refreshing experience. It’s a font that feels both intentional and adaptable, making it a valuable addition to any designer’s toolkit. From branding to packaging, from digital assets to printed materials, Tabu consistently delivers a unique visual voice that enhances the overall design.
Whether you’re looking for a striking headline font, a creative logo font, or a subtle accent font, Tabu has the versatility to meet your needs. It’s a great example of how a single typeface can elevate a brand’s visual identity and create a lasting impression.
