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Ugly.Duckling

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www.uglyduckling-id.com
UGLY.DUCKLING-_-Designers-_-Cover-Image.jpg
  • South Korea
  • Appliances
  • Consumer electronics
  • Digital
  • Furniture
  • Industrial equipment
  • Lighting
  • Medical Devices
  • Tech
  • Wearables
  • Bathroom
  • Home
  • Kitchen
  • Office
  • Outdoor
  • Urban
  • Biomaterials
  • Ceramic
  • Glass
  • Leather
  • Metal
  • Plastic
  • Wood
  • 3D printing
  • Electric
  • Lifestyle
  • Micro-mobility
  • Smart Home
  • Workspace
  • Online
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UGLY.DUCKLING-_-Designers-_-Cover-Image.jpg

GIHAWOO DESIGN is actively involved in providing design consulting services to both domestic and international manufacturers, positioning itself as a leading global design agency representing Korea. The company’s proprietary design brand, ‘Ugly.Duckling,’ has attracted significant attention from design-related media worldwide.

The brand has been showcased at prestigious exhibitions such as the 2010 DMY Berlin, 2011 100% Design London, 2011 Cheongju International Biennale, and 2011 Design Korea, thereby amplifying its visibility and value on the global stage. GIHAWOO DESIGN’s primary focus is on executing design consulting projects that prioritize universal design principles. The company aims to accurately identify the needs of its clients and consumers while striking a harmonious balance between aesthetics, usability, and productivity. By creating products that seamlessly blend with the environment and cater to human needs, GIHAWOO DESIGN endeavors to generate value that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.

Projects

POPUP SCOOTER – Ugly Duckling Studio has engineered a product that seamlessly blends a stand-up kickboard with a sit-down bike, transitioning through the force of a hydraulic cylinder. This hydraulic mechanism, designed to lift an adult, facilitates the structural conversion from kickboard to electric bicycle effortlessly.
GRAMPUS – This clip-on Bluetooth earphone boasts a detachable design for compatibility with other earphones. Emphasizing a sense of unity in form was pivotal during its design process. Inspired by the smooth silhouette of a killer whale, the product embodies solidity and cohesion. Its intuitive button placement on the front ensures easy identification by touch, enhancing both usability and aesthetics.
90 DEGREE INSTINCT – The primary function of a mobile phone case is to safeguard the exterior of the device. However, it can also serve secondary purposes, such as doubling as a wallet or a stand for the phone. These added functionalities are commonplace. The concept I propose for a phone case caters to users who frequently utilize their phones as camcorders. Many young individuals nowadays document their daily experiences through video recordings on their phones, with some aspiring for more professional-level videography.
PORKET VR – This compact VR device, resembling a piglet (or "porket"), serves as a portable means to experience virtual reality. It functions similarly to a conventional cell phone case, with the added feature of a lens for VR content immersion. Unlike high-tech VR gadgets, this device employs a simple convex lens that magnifies the phone screen, offering an expanded viewing experience. With advancements in display technology providing higher pixel density, even magnified images maintain satisfactory quality.
TELEGUN – Telegun is a mobile phone controller designed in the shape of a gun. It enables the blending of reality and virtual elements through its built-in camera or the camera of a mobile phone, allowing for augmented reality experiences and various games. The device supports both horizontal and vertical mounting of the mobile phone, adapting to different content situations. With multiple joints, users can freely adjust the angle for optimal viewing.
JELLYFISH – In response to the task of designing an internet router, the designer conceptualized a product inspired by the delicate silhouette of a jellyfish. Recognizing the router's role as a prominent fixture in indoor spaces, they aimed to overcome the traditional focus on functionality over aesthetics. Common routers often clash with their surroundings, presenting bulky lines that contribute to visual discord.
RAZOROSE – The product in question is an electric razor specifically designed for women. Recognizing that hair removal is an integral part of women's beauty routines, the designer approached the concept with the same sensibility as cosmetics aimed at self-care. The proposed design emphasizes emotional and aesthetic appeal, departing from the utilitarian look of men's razors.

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