Interstate (typeface)

Interstate is a sans-serif typeface designed by Tobias Frere-Jones starting in 1993 and released by Font Bureau. It's inspired by the signage typeface used on United States Interstate highways. Frere-Jones studied the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which dictated the specifications for highway signage lettering, and sought to capture the utilitarian clarity and legibility of those letterforms in a digital typeface.

Key characteristics of Interstate include its relatively narrow proportions, uniform stroke weight, and squared-off curves. These features contribute to its efficiency in conveying information quickly and clearly, even at a distance or in adverse conditions. The design prioritizes readability above aesthetic flourish.

Interstate is available in a variety of weights, ranging from Extra Light to Black, and includes condensed versions. This range of styles makes it suitable for a wide range of applications beyond signage, including corporate identity, website design, and editorial work. Its neutral and functional appearance makes it a versatile choice for projects requiring a clean and modern aesthetic. While rooted in the visual language of transportation, Interstate has become a widely used and respected typeface in diverse design contexts.