A protective light system designed for low to mid range DJ's and venues
THE IDEA:
In conversation with live music performers and DJs, I found that there is a large gap in efficiency and equipment when it comes to low/mid-range performers versus top performers and higher-end venues.
Can we design a product that can give a lesser-known performer a high-end playing experience?
RESEARCH :: Finding Differences in Playing Experience
.Christian Lindler
(Goes by Dyoni)
Low-mid-range DJ, plays at fraternity events, bars, clubs and raves.
Problems and Concerns
Found large inconsistencies in venues when it comes to lighting.
Some local bars offer no lighting; finds it hard to see the fader knobs and buttons that are not lit up.
Booth setups are vulnerable to spilled drinks & crowd bumps.
Mentions the "spray" when people are dancing with drinks and it hits everywhere on his deck.
Darius Bell
(Performs as Twin Diplomacy)
Top-performing DJ, plays festivals, raves, clubs and private events.
Problems and Concerns
Harps on the differences in playing experience when you have proper production.
Recalls how the strobe light can throw him off sometimes when he's mixing
Mentions issues getting their name out there when they started
Wanted something to stand out visually; said being twins helps with their brand image.
Oliver Thor
(PageRank on stage)
Beginner DJ, plays in-house fraternity events.
Problems and Concerns
Mentions personally not being affected by lighting too much
He mentioned he has been lucky to play in more well-lit environments.
Discusses branding and feels he needs more identity at the booth.
Mentions large DJ's have huge screens behind them that only display their name.
Key Takeaways/Problems
DJs often play in low-light venues (small clubs, basements, DIY spaces).
Lack of proper booth lighting
Booth setups are vulnerable to spilled drinks & crowd bumps.
DJs struggle to stand out visually without large-scale production.
Qualms with DJ's on the internet
Many DJ's online have problems with low-light venues and lack of proper booth lighting.
Resort to using flashlights and clip on lights to see.
DJs want some kind of light/branding element to share who they are with the crowd
Some use hologram lights or small custom LEDS
INSPIRATION :: Design Choices that Belong in Nightlife
< MOOD
INSP.>
The design choices are meant to reflect ruggedness, geometricity/light patterning, and mystery.
IDEATION :: Using Research & Inspiration to Guide Design Process
Design 1 :: Organic Pattern
Design 2 :: DIY Branding
Design 3 :: Sweeping Curve
Design 4 :: Warm Lamp
CONCEPTS :: Narrowing down the Design
Combination of many of the earlier design ideas.
Portable light that folds into itself.
Hinged acrylic panels to reflect the light back into the booth
Full folded aluminum construction
Laser-etched acrylic panels catered to DJ's branding.
CHANGES AND EXPERIMENTATION :: Study Models and Design Evolution
FINAL MODELS :: Process and Final Images