Well-designed govt research book from Florian Mewes and Alfons Hooikaas

As we all know Holland is much more than tulips and clogs, and this publication commissioned by the Dutch government is just one initiative that suggests those in power are keen to move on from this old-fashioned stereotype. Titled Maak Plaats! (Make Space!) this 400 page publication presents masses of research and proposes a strategy centred around transit-oriented development (TOD) for the north Holland precinct. It sounds complex, but the basic idea is to utilise the land surrounding public transport stations for housing and other urban functions therefore adding more value to the area.

Tasked with creating this mammoth publication were New York-based designers Florian Mewes and Alfons Hooikaas. From its bold orange cover and use of infographics, it’s definitely one for the detail-driven. As a research-based book it’s information-laden and text-heavy but it’s interesting to see two designers being employed to make it a comprehensive and digestible entity. This nod towards a clear and considered composition makes sense as last year the publication was presented to the public and handed over to the mayors of the participating cities. It won’t win the award for sexiest book, but it doesn’t need to. It’s designed for purpose with well-chosen colours, careful image selection and varied text layout applied where possible.