Geotype Submission

The Geotype project charts the rich history of lettering and type forms that have established the identity of cities and towns around the world. Explore the map

How does this letter-form communicate its location?

Woodstock is one of Cape Town’s oldest suburbs, established in 1788. It initially housed farm cottages and fisherman houses until a new urbanisation era, where working-class residents were ushered in during the 19th century. The area is undergoing gentrification, but most derelict buildings function as low-income businesses for those displaced by apartheid-era segregation. A faded, hand-painted sign, created in the mid-1950s announces the company and location in a friendly manner. The san serif typeface has a colourful, decorative drop shadow which adds a Cape Malay personality to the business. Residents would see this as a trustworthy, affordable family business.

Location

Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town, South Africa