Comfort with traditional materials

The model should adopt the design language of a company whose product range does not include devices as headphones. The product range was to be analyzed in order to transfer materials, form and colors to the headphones.

The analysis of the company BIRKENSTOCK resulted in a model, mainly made of cork, vegetable tanned leather and felt, which is adjustable in height with a leather strap and the original buckle. The leather was used to cover a metal frame and the ear cups out of foam.

Felt fabric is available in the Birkenstock sandals and it also improves the wearing comfort in the headphone model. The used felt is made of wool, it is color resistant, anti-static and flame retardant. The material also dampens noise and absorbs sound outside the headphones.

Cork, which is obtained from the bark of the cork oak, is crushed during processing and pressed into the desired shape. The material is extremely light, elastic, and heat and sound insulating. Properties that benefit the headphones. In addition, it is completely biodegradable, renewable and recyclable.

Leather is quite stable and therefore a durable material, which is easy to shape. For the vegetable leather used here, extracts from plant parts (oak, chestnut) were used to obtain the tanning agents. The tanning process is therefore environmentally friendly, free of pollutants and dyes. Over time, the leather on the headphones develops an individual patina created by light and use, which creates an unique look.

The classic, vintage style metal spike buckle is used to adjust the wearing height on both sides of the head. Even without the logo, it would strongly remind of the company for which the buckle has become an identifying feature in early times.