Fournier - Line Height Optimizer

About this plugin

Fournier - Line Height Optimizer

Fournier is a precision Figma plugin that calculates and applies line heights based on visual reality rather than abstract font metrics. It uses advanced typographic principles to ensure perfect vertical rhythm for both headlines and body text.

Why Fournier?

Standard line-height tools rely on the font's bounding box. However, different typefaces have vastly different vertical footprints even at the same font size. This often leads to inconsistent spacing when switching between font families.

Fournier differs by using the "Hg-Method":

It measures the actual ink height of the characters (Cap height and Descender) rather than the invisible bounding box. This ensures consistent perceived density and readability across any typeface.

Key Features

1. Optical Measurement: Calculates line height based on what the eye sees, not arbitrary software metrics.
2. Context Awareness: Automatically detects if a text block is a Headline or Body Text by analyzing the relationship between text length and size.
3. Dynamic Algorithms:
4. Headlines: Automatically tightens line height for larger text sizes to create impactful, cohesive headings.
5. Body Text: Increases "breathing room" for wider text columns to guide the eye and maintain readability.
6. Interactive Controls: Fine-tune the result with a smart multiplier slider to match your specific design system.
7. Real-time Feedback: Instantly see how changes affect the visual rhythm of your selection.

How it Works

The plugin evaluates every selection individually to apply the most appropriate typographic rules:

1. Analysis: Fournier scans the selected text to determine its visual footprint and optical size.
2. Classification: It intelligently categorizes the layer as either a headline or body copy without requiring manual input.
3. Optimization:
4. Large Type: The algorithm mimics the practice of manual typesetting, reducing leading as text size increases to prevent headers from falling apart.
5. Long Measure: For body text, it ensures that longer lines receive proportionally more line height to aid horizontal tracking.