Thonik’s striking two-tone system gives inclusive broadcaster Human a unified voice in Dutch media

Human, the humanist Dutch broadcaster, explores what makes us human through its programs. Their expansive selection of programs, platforms and educational initiatives invite viewers to engage with and understand the stories of others and ultimately seek positive change. In a vibrant reimagining of Human’s visual identity, created by Dutch studio Thonik, a palette of bright colours leads the design, representing the diversity, depth, and openness of the conversations Human fosters. Here, fluorescent magenta meets orange (a colour with roots in the humanist movement) in a striking dance of colour (and a subtle ton-sur-ton effect) that commands attention in the crowded Dutch media landscape. The type treatment moves away from the previous direction, which was set entirely in capitals. Instead, opting for lowercase creates a friendlier, more open expression. “Immediately, we noticed the natural rhythm within the word human,” Designer & Partner Roy Terhorst tells us, “where the curves of the lowercase ‘h’ subtly echo in the ‘u,’ ‘m,’ ‘a,’ and ‘n,’ forming a harmonious flow. To amplify this visual connection, we explored typefaces and found Lineto’s LL Riforma, which reinforced and enhanced this idea even further.”