The Archive of Untranslatable Words embraces the dynamic nature of language. Instead of a traditional hardbound copy, the archive takes the form of cue cards that are thoughtfully ring-bound.

The decision to make it ring-bound unlocks a world of possibilities. The rings can easily open, allowing removal, addition, and rearrangement of cards at will. This format positions the archive as a flexible and ever-evolving project rather than a static, completed work.

Each card showcases a single word in its native language on the front and provides insights on the back. The design is minimal, like a dictionary, keeping words in focus.

The colour palette, deliberately neutral, is anchored in a soft green hue reminiscent of historical archival registers. This colour selection bridges the past and the present, lending a touch of timeless elegance to the covers, register cards, and posters.

In selecting typefaces, functionality was paramount. For languages using the Latin alphabet, the choice was the highly readable DTL Documenta. For scripts beyond this scope, the versatile Noto font was a natural choice, designed to embrace and harmonise the myriad languages it represents.

The paper selection was guided by durability and legibility, leading to the choice of unbleached, acid- and age-resistant high-volume paper with a substantial 300 gsm weight.

Index listing all 170 untranslatable words