#Japan #Tokyo #Dieter Rams #Braun Audio #Sound Design

Braun Audio: The Form of Quiet

Braun Audio has become synonymous with iconic industrial design, particularly in the context of the 20th century. At the forefront of this movement is Dieter Rams, whose principles of design have transcended mere aesthetics, delving into the essence of our daily lives. His mantra, "Less but better," serves as a guiding light for both designers and consumers alike.

From October 18 to 26, 2025, a special exhibition will showcase a curated collection of Braun products across Germany, bringing together innovative lines such as the SK series, Atelier series, and a diverse range of audio equipment like the L series speakers, RCS9, RT20 amplifiers, and PCS51. In addition to these, everyday essentials like desktop lighters and clocks will be available, embodying Rams’ philosophy in each piece. These items, accompanied by their unique stories, encourage visitors to appreciate the intersection of design and utility in their daily routines.

Opening Listening Event

To kick off the exhibition, an experimental listening event will take place on October 17, 2025, featuring a blend of Braun Audio devices. Attendees can immerse themselves in a soundscape crafted by sound director Mashu Yokoyama and artist KEI. By merging ambient music from renowned German artists such as Roedelius with environmental sounds, the event aims to explore a new relationship between Braun Audio and ambient music. Experience a night where sound and design intertwine, fostering a unique atmosphere steeped in the spirit of Rams’ work.

The event will commence from 4 PM to 9 PM, with an admission fee of ¥1,000, which includes a drink. Notably, all exhibited items will be up for purchase before the public sale begins on October 18, guaranteeing attendees access to exclusive products.

Venue Details

The exhibition will be held at COMMON UNCOMMON Gallery, located at 5-28-17 Kyodo, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo. The gallery will operate from noon to 8 PM, closed on Thursdays. For inquiries, potential visitors are encouraged to reach out via phone or through Instagram (@commonuncommon_gallery).

The Legacy of Dieter Rams

Dieter Rams, born in Wiesbaden, Germany in 1932, has played a pivotal role in shaping modern design. After graduating from the Wiesbaden University of Art, Rams honed his skills in the office of architect Otto Apel before joining Braun's design team in 1955, just as the company established its design department. He quickly made his mark, introducing the SK4, a revolutionary model that integrated transparent acrylic with metal and wood, redefining home audio aesthetics.

Under Rams’ leadership, Braun’s design team grew significantly, with him at the helm until his retirement in 1997. His impact has not only transformed Braun but has also solidified his status as one of the most influential industrial designers of the 20th century. His role extended beyond design, contributing as a professor of industrial design at Hamburg University from 1981 to 1997, where he emphasized teamwork in the design process.

Rams’ philosophy continues to resonate today, urging designers and consumers alike to consider essential needs and the appearance of devices. His belief in questioning norms—"Must it be this way?"—reinforces the idea that design is not merely about aesthetics but about creating positive changes for both people and the environment.

By advocating for minimalism and quality through his "Less but better" approach, Rams has provided a pathway towards a future that values both beauty and functionality. Through the exhibition and events by Braun Audio, attendees can engage with this legacy and explore how these principles can enhance daily life, reaffirming the integral relationship between sound, design, and human experience.