On the occasion of the Milan Design Week 2019, Panasonic has unveiled Vitrine, a transparent OLED concept that resembles a glass cabinet. The innovative concept is presented at Salone del Mobile as part of an installation by Swiss furniture brand Vitra. The transparent OLED display is crafted from a wooden frame holding what appears to be a pane of glass. As such it blends naturally into any contemporary living space. However, the moment the device is switched on, it transforms into a vivid OLED display.
The transparent OLED is the result of a conceptual research project by Panasonic and Vitra. Through a series of workshops Vitra provided expertise in furniture and space design which was combined with Panasonic’s focus on using advanced technologies to improve lives. As a result, a number of ideas about how new technologies can be used to seamlessly integrate audiovisual devices into our living space were developed. The transparent OLED display is the first of these ideas to come to fruition. The transparent OLED display converts from a passive object into a lively and dynamic element, from something meant to be seen into something meant to be watched.
Designed by Scandinavian based designer Daniel Rybakken and Panasonic Design Kyoto, the OLED display consists of materials such as wood, metal and glass. The technological components are cleverly concealed within the wooden frame, which doubles as a stand for the device. A lightning element, which enhances the viewing and ambient experience, is also directly and unobtrusively housed within the frame. Panasonic said that it is actively evaluating feedback about the device and looking into market demands. The OLED display will be on show at Vitra’s stand (Booth B07/C12, Hall 20) at the Salone del Mobile until April 14, 2019.
