In an innovative fusion of film and furniture, WOW atelier has masterfully crafted an analog hi-fi console, drawing profound inspiration from Stanley Kubrick's cinematic masterpiece, "The Shining." This distinctive creation transcends mere functionality, embedding the film's eerie architectural lexicon and psychological undertones into a sophisticated domestic furnishing. The console's meticulous design, a result of a two-year collaborative journey with a discerning client, positions it not as a standalone item but as an integral architectural component within the residential environment, reflecting a shared appreciation for the film's artistry.
A Cinematic Console: The "Overlook Hotel" Inspired Hi-Fi System
In a creative endeavor culminating recently, WOW atelier introduced its analog hi-fi console, a bespoke piece of furniture that pays homage to Stanley Kubrick's chilling classic, "The Shining." This design initiative, born from an extended residential partnership rather than a standalone commission, allowed the console to be organically woven into the very fabric of the home's architectural and interior scheme. Crafted primarily from American walnut, the console's exterior subtly mirrors the rich, deep tones and tactile qualities reminiscent of the infamous Overlook Hotel's interiors. Its CNC-milled paneling reimagines the film's distinctive wainscot detailing, simplifying it into a rhythmic, proportional system rather than an overt embellishment. This approach maintains a symmetrical and understated form, solidifying its architectural presence. Internally, the console unveils a dramatic contrast: a vibrant red wool felt lining, which not only provides a visual and textural counterpoint but also subtly alludes to the film's psychological intensity. Integrated linear lighting bathes the turntable and controls in a warm glow, creating an inviting ambiance for vinyl enthusiasts. A hidden typographic detail, the haunting phrase 'all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,' is etched into the felt, scaled to a vinyl record sleeve and only revealed upon the console's use. At its heart lies a limited-edition Technics turntable, complemented by carefully selected vintage stereo components that ensure both acoustic excellence and aesthetic harmony. The LED lighting is precisely calibrated to match the equipment's color temperature, enhancing the cohesive visual experience. The entire fabrication process, executed in-house by WOW atelier, mirrored Kubrick's own exacting standards, ensuring unparalleled control over every detail, from joinery to ventilation. The objective was to produce a piece that could authentically belong within the Overlook Hotel itself – an object both refined and subtly unsettling, where sound, memory, and atmosphere converge to elevate the act of listening to vinyl records into a deliberate, ritualistic art form.
This project exemplifies how profound artistic inspiration can transform everyday objects into extraordinary pieces of design. It challenges our perceptions of furniture, urging us to consider its potential as a narrative vehicle and an architectural extension of our living spaces. The console’s meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful integration of thematic elements from "The Shining" offer a compelling blueprint for how designers can infuse deeper meaning and a sense of story into their creations, elevating functional items to true works of art that resonate on multiple levels.