College - Author 1
College of Liberal Arts
Department - Author 1
Graphic Communication Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Graphic Communication
Date
12-2025
Primary Advisor
Hocheol Yang, College of Liberal Arts, Graphic Communication Department
Abstract/Summary
This project explores accessibility-focused print and digital design features for older audiences within the cookbook and graphic communication industries. While cookbooks are widely produced, they rarely consider the physical, visual, and ergonomic experiences of aging users. Inspired by my grandmother’s 1980s church cookbook, I researched accessible design practices and communicated my findings through an infographic and a poster, highlighting features such as minimum 12–14 point body text, warm color palettes, high-contrast layouts, clear hierarchy, increased line spacing, simplified ingredient lists, columns, and lay-flat binding. I applied these learned features to several redesigned spreads from the original cookbook. This project demonstrates that thoughtful design, considering typography, layout, and usability, can make cookbooks more accessible, functional, and inclusive for aging audiences.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/grcsp/319