HAL Matex is a modern grotesque sans-serif typeface rooted in mid-20th-century design traditions and Bauhaus influences. Designed by Elias Hanzer and Lucas Liccini, it takes inspiration from schoolbook grotesques and Herbert Bayer’s “Universal” alphabet, characterized by its simplified, spurless forms. Released in 2019, Matex offers a contemporary interpretation of these historical styles while introducing its own unique personality.

Matex features a set of alternate lowercase characters, accessible via OpenType stylistic sets, allowing for greater typographic flexibility. The typeface includes six weights, ranging from light to bold, ensuring versatility for applications from editorial layouts to branding and digital interfaces. Its clean and geometric structure balances clarity with subtle humanist touches, making it suitable for a variety of design contexts.

The typeface underwent refinement, with an updated version released in 2021, addressing usability in both print and digital environments. Its modern yet approachable aesthetic has made it a popular choice for projects such as the branding for Esper Bionics and the “original bauhaus” exhibition guide at the Berlinische Galerie.

Matex’s timeless design and adaptability affirm its position as a robust tool for contemporary designers.