Wilhelmina

Wilhelmina is a font inspired by the lettering used on the façade of the Billardfabriek Wilhelmina (Billiard Factory) in Amsterdam. This style of lettering, which has almost disappeared today, once identified the windows of numerous businesses in the Dutch capital.
Piet Schreuders, in his essay “Letters van Glas” published in the 1997 edition of his book Lay in Lay Out, documented this style and highlighted its originality and local character. In further research, Schreuders was able to identify Jacques de Rooy (1927–2016), J.A.H.T. Buijs, Romeo (Jacq. Duin), J. van ‘t Hull, and ‘Jonk’ as the sign painters who spread this style throughout the city.
In 2015, Ramiro Espinoza began working on a revival of the style. The design remained unpublished for years because it didn’t align with the style he wanted for his foundry. The launch of Brutal Types presented the perfect opportunity to complete the design and finally release it.
This font is well-suited for use in museum communications, architecture books, electronic music festivals, posters, artist websites, campaigns, or any design project tied to Amsterdam—or any project that calls for a bold and unconventional aesthetic.