Gondola Bluetooth speaker by Sungmin Hwang
The “Gondola” is an innovative Bluetooth speaker designed by Sungmin Hwang that draws its inspiration from the gondola lift, a transportation marvel that elevates passengers from one point to another. This device aims to enhance music listening by offering an immersive, travel-like experience where listeners can embark on an emotional journey with each track. As a glides across scenic landscapes, music too transports listeners, taking them through a series of emotions from the beginning to the end of a song.
It’s standout feature is its ability to display the playback time of a track without needing to check a mobile app. As music plays, the physical module of the speaker moves back and forth, mimicking the action of a lift. This brings the progress of the song to life, transforming time into a visible and engaging experience.
Inspired by a gondola ride to Namsan Tower in Seoul, it’s design integrates elements from the journey, capturing the elegance of the gondola, the beauty of mountainous landscapes, and the iconic presence of a tower. The designer’s personal experience of riding over the autumn foliage of Namsan Mountain contributed three key themes to the concept: itself, the mountains, and the tower.
Gondola’s rope uses durable fishing line, allowing the module to move smoothly throughout the song’s playback time. Inside the speaker’s LED lights shift in color to indicate different statuses, enhancing the listening experience by giving the moment a visual rhythm. In both music and rides, it captures the essence of fleeting yet deeply memorable moments, allowing users to escape daily routines and fully immerse themselves in the present.
All images: Sungmin Hwang
