Haettenschweiler from A to Z – Creator of Typefaces, Graphic Designer, Artist

This show is the first ever presentation of the complete work of this charismatic Swiss designer.

Walter F. Haettenschweiler (1933–2014) is best-known as a designer of title fonts that are refreshingly different to the mainstream. While still training as a graphic designer during the 1950s he designed the legendary Schmalfette Grotesk, which was later to achieve cult status and was used as the Microsoft system type. The Lettera volumes, published jointly with Armin Haab and featuring their own as well as re-edited typeface designs by others, also achieved worldwide recognition. A passionate artist and collector, he earned his living with everyday graphics created in his “Studio for Advertising and Design” for companies in the Zug region as well as for national institutions.


Exhibitions and events

Swiss Design Collection

Temporary exhibition at Museum für Gestaltung Zürich, Toni-Areal until 31.12.2027

The museum houses the largest international design collection in Switzerland. The new permanent exhibition presents highlights and opens up access to the archives. The Museum für Gestaltung Zürich...

Photo Studio Wolgensinger —Through Four Eyes

Temporary exhibition at Museum für Gestaltung Zürich, Toni-Areal until 07.09.2025

The photo studio of Luzzi and Michael Wolgensinger, founded in the mid-1930s, was a Zurich institution for six decades and an important meeting place for the international avant-garde. With their...

Activities from this museum

We don't have anything to show you here.


Suggested Content