FF Cocon

FF Cocon’s designer, Evert Bloemsma (1958–2005) described it as a “serious typeface.” Despite first impressions, the description holds up well. Since its 2001 release, FF Cocon has been used in an astoundingly wide variety of design applications. At large sizes, FF Cocon works as a display face, with beautiful detailing. And at small sizes, it remains surprisingly readable.
The lowercase letters a, b, d, g, h, m, n, p, q, r and u, were drawn without spurs, as Bloemsma made an attempt to erase every trace of handwriting; even “normal,” neutral sans serif typefaces still retain elements in their letterforms like this. Bloemsma wanted none of it. Although a difficult starting point for a typeface, this proved successful. Bloemsma’s design is a family of rounded yet rather asymmetrical forms with details reminiscent of brush-strokes, but that were not made with a brush in hand. In spite of its claim to seriousness, FF Cocon is a family of seductive, voluptuous styles. The original FF Cocon had two widths—normal and condensed. Later, a more compact Extra Condensed version was introduced, as well as italics.