How Two Friends Are Using Typography to Tackle Lisbon's Housing Crisis

Two Friends Create a Unique Font to Combat Lisbon's Housing Crisis

Instead of using Times New Roman, have you ever thought about writing in T2 LX? This is now possible thanks to Rafael Lopes and André Coelho, two friends who came together to create a typeface as a form of creative rebellion against the housing crisis in Lisbon.

Photo: Rita Ansone

Over a year ago, Rafael Lopes, a 24-year-old copywriter, called his friend André Coelho, also 24 and a designer, with an unusual idea. One needed a home due to a rent increase, while the other lived three hours away in Sesimbra. They realized that the rental market in Lisbon is incredibly challenging, so they proposed, "What if we created a typeface based on a T2 apartment in Lisbon?" They decided to sell it at the price of a T2 in the city: 486,000 euros.

Side by side with Times New Roman or Comic Sans, the T2 LX would stand out. André's enthusiastic agreement during that call launched the project.

Through a link on the GoFundMe platform, people can donate a minimum of 5 euros and up to 100,000 euros. So far, the duo has raised 119 euros.

Image from the T2 LX project site

A Typeface as a “Creative Rebellion”

Rafael and André met while working on Avenida da Liberdade. They propose to unite again, years later, to discuss this project that symbolizes their fight against the housing crisis. In the Santo António neighborhood, the INE (National Institute of Statistics) reported that in 2024, the median house price was the highest in Lisbon at 5,879 euros/m2, significantly above the city's average of 4,340 euros/m2.

“Lisbon for Rafael and André has come to mean rebellion. It feels like Lisbon doesn't welcome us, so the font emerges as a form of creative revolt,” Rafael argues.

Photo: Rita Ansone

Although they claim the project is apolitical, it addresses a theme that is prevalent in all political agendas this year. André states, “We wanted to discuss housing from a neutral angle.” The font symbolizes more than just typography; they believe “T2 LX is a source of information and a source of income.” It serves as a link between those seeking housing and those offering properties to rent or sell.

What if they don't reach the 486,000 euros? Rafael remains optimistic, stating, “We believe in the project.” Meanwhile, André considers all scenarios, stating they would make the font available to all contributors if they fall short.

Photo: Rita Ansone

Their search for a home in Lisbon has also become a professional calling card. “Suddenly, in our field [Advertising], everyone knows about the project,” Rafael remarks. He adds, “A fun goal for the font is to see it used in various media and recognized widely, like the old Comic Sans.”

Image from the T2 LX project site

Text edited by Catarina Reis