Phaistos was inspired by the vibrant life in Rudolf Koch’s 1922 Locarno, sometimes called “Eve” in the United States.

David Berlow explored the design through 1989 and 1990, proofing and revising the structure of the tapering verticals to enhance their movement.

Italic and bold variants followed in the spring of 1991; designed and drawn by Berlow and Just van Rossum, they carry the life of the roman throughout the series.

Among other uses, Phaistos is recommended for Magazine, Book and Corporate use.