Jony Ive and Balmuda Introduce the Sailing Lantern: A Fusion of Design and Functionality
Jony Ive’s design studio, LoveFrom, has collaborated with Japanese company Balmuda to unveil a remarkable new product: the Sailing Lantern. This innovative portable lighting solution is the result of their joint admiration for craftsmanship and design excellence. Crafted meticulously in Tokyo, the Sailing Lantern originated from Ive’s personal quest for a reliable lantern for his sailboat.
The Inspiration Behind the Design
Ive has been passionate about sailing since childhood. He expressed in an interview with Wallpaper*, “When you are on the water, your connection to nature and the elements becomes incredibly clear. I was surprised to find that I couldn’t locate a lantern that could endure extreme maritime conditions.” Inspired by vintage Fresnel lamps, the design of the Sailing Lantern strikes a balance between familiarity and modern innovation. “Its familiarity arises not from borrowed elements, but from a deep understanding of humanity and ingenuity,” Ive remarks.
Distinctive Design Features
The Sailing Lantern features a precision-machined stainless steel frame encasing a polished, textured glass module that conceals a high-efficiency LED center. Weighing only 1.5kg, it boasts a luxurious appearance, reminiscent of fine jewelry. However, Ive clarifies, “It’s not precious.” He emphasizes its durability, showcasing its ability to withstand the rigors of boating through dynamic demonstration.
Every detail of the design has been purposefully curated for both aesthetics and functionality. The flower-shaped dial produces a satisfying click when activated, while the lanyard, made from textured polyester, is designed to withstand harsh marine conditions, reinforced with a corrosion-resistant stainless steel button. Over time, the lantern is expected to develop character with scratches, enhancing its appeal.
The Essence of Sailing Embodied in Light
Ive aimed to encapsulate the experience of sailing in the design of the Sailing Lantern. He describes the lighting as “truthful and elemental,” emphasizing the connection between the object and the natural elements. “When you hold it, it just feels right, and it feels alive amid the movement of a boat,” he explains.
A Significant Collaboration
For Ive, the collaboration with Balmuda is as crucial as the design itself. “As I’ve matured, I’ve found that the people I work with matter more than the projects I tackle,” he stated. Founded by Gen Terao in the early 2000s, Balmuda gained fame after designing a cooling platform for Apple Macintosh laptops. The company has become synonymous with precision engineering and minimalist design, akin to the ethos of Ive’s Apple era.
Ive’s admiration for Terao’s work led him to frequently visit Balmuda’s store in Tokyo. “The diverse products reflect a clarity and care that is striking,” he recalls. This collaboration emerged as a way to blend contemporary technology with the timeless serenity of nautical life. Terao noted, “When Jony approached me about the lantern, I found it romantic—a perfect fusion of nautical concepts with modern LED technology.”
Pioneering Lighting Technology
Balmuda’s team drew on their previous experience creating portable lighting, leading to the development of the Sailing Lantern’s innovative lighting mechanism. As the dimming dial is adjusted, the light transitions beautifully from a pink-red glow to a bright white-blue illumination, mimicking natural light. “It’s reflective of nature,” explains Terao, drawing parallels between the lantern’s performance and the colors emitted by flames.
Ive emphasizes the beauty in the act of turning off the lantern, which gradually fades, very much like extinguishing a candle or a bonfire. “Using the term ‘extinguish’ opens a world of possibilities,” he notes, underscoring the thoughtful design process influenced by a rich vocabulary that enhances the user experience.
Conclusion: A Testament to Collaborative Nature
The Sailing Lantern represents not just a product but a celebration of collaboration between Jony Ive and Gen Terao. Terao acknowledges the challenges of meeting Ive’s exacting standards, but he believes these demands have greatly improved their engineering skills. For both designers, this partnership has been a meaningful journey—one rooted in shared values and mutual respect.
With a limited edition of 1,000 units available at $4,800 (€4,500) each, the Sailing Lantern is more than just a tool; it’s an embodiment of artistry and engineering excellence. Discover more about this innovative creation here.
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For insights into how lighting influences interior design, check out our article on the role of lighting in interior design, or visit our blog for more on innovative design and lifestyle tips at ChatbiHouse.
