Nation Station, Beirut

Located in Beirut, Lebanon, Nation Station stands as a testament to resilience and unity. Originally an abandoned gas station, it was transformed after the tragic Beirut blast into a community kitchen that nourishes and supports residents in need. It invites everyone to participate, whether by volunteering in the kitchen or helping with meal preparation, fostering a welcoming environment for all community members.

The branding embodies these core values through thoughtful typographic choices that leverage local Arabic elements. The incorporation of the kashida—a typographic elongation of characters—alongside the Inline Arabic typeface by Arabic Typography, ensures a sense of unity and inclusiveness. These decisions not only enhance the visual identity but also reflect the collaborative spirit that defines Nation Station. In the logo, it is paired with Aeonik from CoType Foundry.

This is further maintained through the use of both Arabic and Latin scripts. Gawhar, designed by Heheh Type, was selected as the secondary Arabic typeface for its readability across various platforms and sizes. The pairing with the dashing and elongated Formula from Pangram Pangram introduces a dynamic interplay between x-heights. This contrast creates a visual balance and a sense of aliveness in the identity. Each language and script contributes uniquely to the branding, adding depth and character.

Bridging these distinct typefaces – differing in language, script, proportions, and style – symbolizes the cohesion and collaboration at Nation Station. This typographic strategy, complemented by the use of contrasting colors, underscores the message of unity in diversity.