Chalkboard Design

Layout & Typography

Betty’s Bistro

Project & Approach

The Challenge

The goal of this project was to design a custom chalkboard that was both visually engaging and highly functional. The chalkboard needed to communicate key information clearly while reinforcing the brand’s personality and creating an inviting atmosphere for customers.

My Approach

The main challenge was balancing creativity with readability. The chalkboard had to:

Be legible from a distance
Organize information clearly without overwhelming the viewer
Reflect the brand’s tone (e.g., cozy, playful, artisanal, modern)
Allow for easy updates and changes

Additionally, the design needed to stand out in a busy environment while still feeling cohesive with the surrounding space.

Design Approach

The design process began with research into the brand’s values, target audience, and physical space. From there, the following decisions guided the design:

- Typography: A mix of bold hand-lettered fonts for headers and simpler lettering for body text ensured clarity and visual hierarchy.
- Layout: Information was divided into clear sections, making it easy for customers to scan quickly.
- Illustration & Ornamentation: Minimal hand-drawn icons, borders, and flourishes were added to enhance visual interest without distracting from the content.
- Color & Contrast: White and accent colors were used strategically against the blackboard surface to maximize readability and draw attention to key items.

The Outcome

The finished chalkboard successfully elevated the space and improved customer engagement. It made information easier to understand at a glance and reinforced the brand’s handcrafted, welcoming feel. Customers responded positively, and the chalkboard became a visual focal point within the space.