Legendary designer Jony Ive has teamed up with the renowned Japanese appliance brand BALMUDA to introduce the Sailing Lantern, an LED lantern that harmoniously blends design aesthetics with technical precision. This collaboration, led by Ive's design firm LoveFrom, draws inspiration from his extensive sailing experience and the longing for the perfect lighting equipment. In an exclusive interview with Boat International, he candidly expressed that his decision to create this lantern stemmed from the inability to find his ideal model on the market. After two years of development, he has finally brought this vision to life.
In a quest to create a lighting fixture that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, Ive teamed up with Gen Terao, the founder of BALMUDA, for this development. The design of the Sailing Lantern pays homage to the Fresnel lamps used in 19th-century lighthouses. Its multi-faceted lampshade serves not just as a visual focal point, but also effectively diffuses and focuses the light. The wick is safeguarded by a metallic structure, maintaining a classic look while echoing modern functionality.
Sailing Lantern spares no effort in the materials used, featuring a marine-grade stainless steel body accented with brass details, complemented by a woven polyester strap. This design offers outstanding weather resistance and durability. The overall structure focuses on long-term use and everyday practicality, ensuring it remains in great condition even when exposed to outdoor elements or marine humidity.
The lighting element is another focal point of this design, where Ive aims to transcend the functionality of typical LED cold lights, creating an emotional experience reminiscent of flames. The team uses red and white LED chips in conjunction with algorithms to process the light source, resulting in delicate adjustments of brightness and color temperature. Users simply turn the flower-shaped knob to switch between warm yellow and white light, catering to various environmental needs. Notably, the Sailing Lantern does not turn off instantly; instead, it mimics the gradual dimming of a flame, creating a natural and warm transition.
Ive emphasizes that this lantern is designed for a lifetime of use, completely breaking away from the fast-paced iteration of current electronic products. Every component is removable and repairable, extending its lifespan while embodying a design spirit that can be passed down. This durability-centric design philosophy perfectly aligns with BALMUDA's consistent product ethos.
BALMUDA has always captivated users with products that balance functionality and aesthetics. Its classic toaster has gained market recognition for its quality construction and practical design. This time, the collaboration with LoveFrom showcases the joint commitment of both brands to detail and craftsmanship, fully revealed in the Sailing Lantern.
Since leaving Apple in 2019, Ive has clearly expanded his creative vision into various fields—from vinyl turntables to Moncler’s functional fashion, and even to designs for charity initiatives like the Origami Red Nose. Each endeavor reflects his newfound creative freedom beyond the logic of tech mass production. The launch of the Sailing Lantern showcases his shift towards designing products for personal interests and niche markets; this lantern is not just a lighting tool but a living piece infused with the spirit of craftsmanship.
Although the product pricing and sales details have yet to be unveiled, the structure, light efficiency, and design philosophy of the Sailing Lantern undeniably suggest that it is a lighting fixture that can accompany users for years. It goes beyond merely providing light; it aims to reclaim the warmth and longevity that objects should possess in this age of rapid consumption.
