THE DYSFUNCTIONAL CLASSICS

GRADUATION PROJECT
“Perfect typography is more a science than an art. [...] Unerring taste, the hallmark of perfection, rests also upon a clear understanding of the laws of harmonious design.” 

‘The Dysfunctional Classics’ is a collection of excerpt books subverting bookmaking theories Jan Tschichold advocates in his writings compiled in The Form of the Book: Essay on the Morality of Good Design, exploring its effects on the design of the book and to its reader.

This series of books playfully juxtapose Tschichold’s narrative for book ideals with its ‘bad form’, prompting reflection on the impact of his book design principles. By bending rules, the project explores the rigidity of design theory—are they to be strictly followed, or could deviations offer unexpected beauty and functionality? In underlining this tension, ‘The Dysfunctional Classics’ serves as both a creative exploration and a dialogue on the balance between tradition and innovation in bookmaking. 



© livia heng 2026