retinaa reimagines cartographic traditions
Designed by RETINAA, Switzerland’s next-generation passport, issued in fall 2022 by the Federal Office of Police continues the country’s legacy of innovation in graphic arts combined with advanced counterfeit protection. In partnership with Thales and Orell Füssli, the Geneva-based studio was commissioned to create a concept that reflects Swiss identity while integrating state-of-the-art security features, revitalizing the red passport that, since 1959, has been considered as one of the most sophisticated and secure travel documents in the world.
The concept reinterprets cartographic traditions and honoring the country’s natural and built landmarks through 3D modelled landscapes. The pages depict an imagined journey along Switzerland’s waterways, from the Alpine peaks down to the valleys, through the 26 cantons and to the world beyond. The first page features Pizzo Rotondo, a summit in the Saint-Gotthard Massif, situated at the crossroads of the country’s linguistic regions. Under ultraviolet light, contour lines emerge to reveal the topography, enhanced with architectural landmarks that reflect cultural heritage and history.
all images courtesy of RETINAA
new swiss passport bridges cutting-edge security & graphic arts
‘The Swiss passport is more than a formal administrative document. It is the expression of Helvetic identity and a brand ambassador for Switzerland abroad. It is a celebration of Swissness and a showcase of technological know-how,’ notes the RETINAA team. In addition to increasing security and being counterfeit-proof, the design needed to explore these aspects to create a document the holder can trust, identify with, and be proud of. The designers then drew upon the cartographic tradition and the nation’s water-rich landscape.
Often referred to as the water tower of Europe, Switzerland is home to 1,500 lakes, numerous rivers, and glaciers, contributing 6% of Europe’s total drinking water reserves. These natural resources shape the country’s geography while also driving its renewable energy production, accounting for 56% of the country’s overall electricity production. Water, with its fluidity and movement, serves as a central theme, symbolizing connection, exchange, and national heritage.
RETINAA designs Switzerland’s next-generation passport
the studio sought to create a concept that reflects Swiss identity while integrating state-of-the-art security features
the inner cover design is centred around an hydrological map of Switzerland
detail of the intaglio print showing world map with major rivers and ocean currents
the concept reinterprets cartographic traditions
print details
under ultraviolet light, contour lines emerge to reveal the topography
architectural landmarks showcase Switzerland’s rich cultural heritage and history
RETINAA draws on the nation’s water-rich landscape
datapage security features
the red passport, since 1959, has been considered as one of the most sophisticated and secure travel documents in the world
project info:
name: The design of Switzerland’s next-generation passport
designer: RETINAA | @retinaa.ch
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edited by: ravail khan | designboom
