About this template
The Swiss 1960 template is a minimal cover letter inspired by the 1960s Swiss International Style — Helvetica or Akzidenz-Grotesk, strict left-aligned grid, a single very thin rule, abundant white space. The post-war minimalism reference, applied to the cover-letter format. Compatible with the ATS systems of graphic-design studios and type foundries (Workday at Pentagram, Sagmeister & Walsh, Spin London, Wim Crouwel Studio, Lineto, Grilli Type).
Who is it for?
It suits candidates in graphic design, brand-identity studios, type foundries (Monotype, Adobe Type, Commercial Type, Lineto, Grilli Type, Klim Type Foundry), design teaching (ECAL Lausanne, ZHdK Zurich, Werkplaats Typografie Arnhem, Yale Graphic Design MFA), museum signage and design-history programmes. Right for profiles whose training explicitly references Müller-Brockmann, Hofmann or the Basel and Zurich schools.
How to use it
The strict 12-column grid invisibly structures the document — header, body and signature align on columns 1-8 (columns 9-12 reserved for margins). Helvetica Neue 55 Roman 10 pt body with 14 pt leading echoes the Müller-Brockmann specification for professional correspondence. The hook enters the subject with a short declarative sentence. Paragraph 2 cites your school references (ECAL, ZHdK, Werkplaats, Yale Graphic Design MFA) and your signature projects. A handwritten signature in black ink, scanned at 600 dpi.
Frequently asked questions
Is it suitable for type foundries?
Yes for Lineto, Grilli Type, Klim Type Foundry, Commercial Type, Optimo, Process Type Foundry, Schick Toikka, Or Type, Dinamo — which appreciate the Swiss 1960 register for type-designer and type-project-manager profiles. Mention your released typefaces in paragraph 2.
Should I cite my design teachers or mentors?
Yes in shorthand in paragraph 2 if relevant: "ECAL diploma 2018, mentor Cornel Windlin on the diploma project; internship at Lineto 2017 under Andreas Kohli". Swiss studio HR teams recognise stylistic lineages and appreciate this traceability.
Is the letter suitable for design schools?
Yes for applications to teaching positions at ECAL Lausanne, ZHdK Zurich, HEAR Strasbourg, ENSAD Paris, Werkplaats Typografie Arnhem, Yale Graphic Design MFA, RISD Graphic Design — which appreciate the Swiss 1960 register for teaching profiles. Mention your signed practice and theoretical publications in paragraph 2.
