Elias Brunner — independent graphic designer working in the Swiss tradition. I design identity systems, editorial publications, and typography-led digital experiences for cultural institutions, museums, and editorial-first clients.
Six selected projects from the last five years across identity, editorial, and digital. Strict grid, clean typography, no decoration without function.
A complete visual identity for the Kunsthaus Zurich's 2026 exhibition programme. Modular grid system, custom display typeface, and a signage system that works across four buildings.
Art direction and layout for the 12th issue of Helvetica Quarterly — a 96-page magazine on contemporary typography. Strict 12-column grid, two typefaces, one accent red.
A limited-edition poster series for the Bauhaus centenary. 12 posters, 12 grid variations, one red square.
A 180-page annual report for ETH Zurich. Information design first, decoration never.
An iOS app that puts the iconic SBB clock at the centre. One screen, one function, one second-tick animation.
A custom typeface system for SBB wayfinding — three weights, two optical sizes, one grid. Deployed across 800+ stations and 12,000 signage applications nationwide.
I'm Elias Brunner, an independent graphic designer working in the Swiss tradition. I trained at the Basel School of Design (HGK FHNW) and have been independent since 2015.
My work is grounded in the principles taught by Müller-Brockmann, Ruder, and Hofmann — grid systems, typographic hierarchy, and a refusal to decorate when composition will do. I work primarily for cultural institutions, museums, and editorial-first clients.
I take on 4–6 projects a year. Every project starts with a written brief and a single page of design principles we'll defend together. Less portfolio, more system.
Three disciplines, one studio. All bookable for Q4 2026.
Wordmarks, identity systems, and design guidelines for cultural institutions, museums, and editorial-first brands.
Magazines, books, annual reports, and exhibition catalogues. Strict grids, typographic hierarchy, and information design first.
Editorial websites and custom typefaces. The grid is the same; the medium is different.
A predictable process so you always know what I'm designing, why I'm designing it, and when it ships.
Two weeks of conversation, audit, and reference-gathering. A written brief and a single page of design principles.
Information architecture, content strategy, and the smallest possible grid system. Decisions get documented.
Typographic hierarchy, typeface selection, and (where appropriate) custom type design. Hierarchy before colour, always.
Production-ready files, a documented system your team can extend, and a 30-day tuning window after launch.
I take on 4–6 commissions a year. Tell me about the project, the audience, and what success looks like. I respond within three business days.