New American Design by Mikey Chen

The evolution of the television has slowly reduced its volume – plasma screens and LCDs boast thinner and thinner constructs – while entertainment centers including projectors and high-tech sound systems have commandeered the living room space. Designer Mikey Chen proposes a reversal in attitude, as well as a step back in time, through his piece, t.v, part of his “New American Design” series. Inspired by television sets from the 1950s, his rendition of the television treats the home electronic as a piece of furniture with spunk. The television sports two antennas perked in eager excitement, and four tapered legs, making the piece look like a loveable family pet. Unlike the excessive and confusing remotes of DVRs and TiVo’s, t.v’s remote is a simple power button that doubles as a dial for channel surfing and volume control. The remote fits into a panel on the right side of the television set, completing the vintage look. Representative of Chen’s entire concept for his take on the television, the light silver and wooden finish of the piece is a quirky and fresh alternative to the somber blacks typically present in the modern-day market.