Formerly Known is a Los Angeles based type foundry founded by Paul Hutchison and Ross Burwell of Hype Type Studio. Built from within an active design practice, the foundry approaches type design as both a functional tool and a creative discipline, shaped by the real demands of contemporary brand work.

Each typeface in the catalogue originates from a specific need identified through studio projects. Rather than creating fonts in isolation, Formerly Known develops type systems to solve practical design challenges, resulting in work that is both highly usable and conceptually driven. This process gives the foundry a distinct point of view, where clarity, personality, and performance are equally considered.

The foundry is guided by a belief that type design should evolve alongside culture and technology. Drawing from experimental methods and a willingness to question conventions, Formerly Known explores new forms, structures, and applications that push beyond traditional boundaries. At the same time, their work maintains a strong emphasis on craft, ensuring each release is refined, flexible, and built for real world use.

Balancing precision with expression, Formerly Known creates typefaces that are designed to work hard while still carrying a clear voice. The result is a growing catalogue of contemporary type that reflects both the needs of designers and the possibilities of modern typography.