panasonic and VITRA unveil transparent TV concept at salone del mobile

during milan design week 2019, panasonic has unveiled ‘vitrine,’ a transparent OLED screen that resembles a glass cabinet. the concept is presented at salone del mobile as part of an installation by swiss furniture brand VITRA. the product 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 when not in use.

all images courtesy of panasonic design

the moment the device is switched on, it transforms into a vivid OLED display. the technological components are cleverly concealed within the wooden frame which also serves 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. the prototype is the result of a two-year conceptual collaboration by panasonic and VITRA, based on an exchange of ideas about how new technologies can seamlessly integrate audio-visual devices into our living spaces.

‘vitrine converts from a passive object into a lively and dynamic element, from something meant to be seen into something meant to be watched,’ explains panasonic’s michael shadovitz who worked on the project alongside designer daniel rybakken. ‘the model carefully balances between art and design,’ rybakken continues. ‘as a screen it no longer dictates its placement nor its role in the living space. the dominating large black surface is instead transformed into something that can highlight what’s behind, what’s displayed or nothing at all.’

the prototype remains on view at VITRA’s stand (booth B07/C12, hall 20) at salone del mobile until april 14, 2019. panasonic has not yet announced plans to commercially market the prototype, however following milan, ‘vitrine’ will be on display in tokyo at panasonic’s new show space, ‘&panasonic’, from the end of april.

project info:

design: panasonic and daniel rybakken
in collaboration with: VITRA
on view: vitra’s stand (booth B07/C12, hall 20) at salone del mobile until april 14, 2019

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions’ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: philip stevens | designboom