What if our digital devices weren't clamoring for attention, but instead blended seamlessly into the serene backdrop of our lives, much like a quiet garden stone or the shifting seasons? In this session, Robin Moreau from mui Lab, a Kyoto-based startup, invited us to rethink our relationship with technology through the lens of "calm technology" and traditional Japanese design principles.
Robin introduced us to mui Lab's signature product: a smart home controller with a real wood veneer screen that subtly displays information, rather than demanding it. This understated approach directly combats the pervasive "screen addiction" that dominates modern life, aiming to create digital experiences that support our well-being without overwhelming our senses. We learned about the origins of calm technology, a concept developed at Xerox PARC in the 90s, which envisioned ubiquitous computing as ambient and unnoticed until needed.
The core of mui Lab's philosophy, as Robin explained, lies in its blend of these calm technology principles with profound Japanese concepts. He shared compelling examples, such as the tomehishi - a simple stone with a rope found in Japanese gardens that subtly communicates a "no entry" boundary without disrupting the tranquility. We also saw a wooden plank that signals when plants have been watered, or the traditional Japanese kakemono scroll and floral arrangement that gently inform the season's passage without explicit notification. These examples highlighted how information can exist in our periphery, offering subtle cues that enhance our awareness rather than demanding our focus.
The conversation naturally veered into the challenges and triumphs of adhering to such a philosophy in a tech-driven world. While mui Lab is a business that needs to generate revenue, Robin emphasized their commitment to these principles as their unique differentiator. He discussed the active choices they make, like opting for real wood despite its complexities, because the tactile, human connection it fosters is paramount. We also saw a demonstration of their innovative light timer, where users draw a line on the wooden screen, and as the line slowly disappears, the lights dim, creating a seamless and intuitive transition to sleep - a testament to designing for "the right interaction for the right use case" without relying on complex AI or predictive analytics.
The session was a thoughtful exploration of how to design technology that respects human needs and natural rhythms, offering a refreshing perspective on creating digital products that truly enhance our lives without dominating them.
