Google Headphone
Design
Year 2 - 5 Week Project
The project description was to design a pair of headphones based on Googles design philosophy. In this process, students were to research googles existing designs, with attention to material usage, form, and core aesthetics.
Google Pixel Bud Gen 2
Finding Inspiration in Google’s Designs
I first looked to Google’s existing designs for inspiration. I began by examining their design language and noticed major reoccurring themes: generous curvature, subtle branding, and a minimalist usage of color. I found the existing Google Pixel Buds to be my primary source of inspiration in the end. I found inspiration in their color usage, with the contrast of black and white. I also found the usage of materials interesting, opting for a soft plastic underside, with a textured white plastic on top.
Form Exploration
Form exploration began with designing modular ear pieces, as well as different fitment methods and silhouettes. During this stage in the design process, I payed close attention to how I could shape my designs with Google in mind.
Translating the design to headphones
In my final design, I choose to maintain the aesthetic of the existing Google Pixel Buds. In this, I opted for similar colors, maintaining the black and white, as well as the material usage; choosing to keep the contrasting dark and light plastics.
Capturing the Details
I opted to integrate many of Googles detailing styles into the product. These included the usage of a subtle inset logo, soft touch materials around the earphone, and small accent lighting.
