Kith and Mark Jupiter Redesign Iconic Bose 901 Speakers for 60th Anniversary
American apparel brand Kith collaborated with Brooklyn furniture designer Mark Jupiter and audio company Bose to create a modern version of the Bose 901 speakers, originally launched in 1968. This project marks Bose’s 60th anniversary and resulted in a limited collection of just twelve pairs.
Kith reimagined the speaker casing, focusing on wood and metal materials. The updated design includes backward-facing speakers that enhance sound quality by reflecting sound off walls. The wooden cases also serve as decorative pieces. Kith’s founder, Ronnie Fieg, emphasized the timelessness of the original design, stating that the speakers were as much furniture as they were audio devices.
Fieg chose Jupiter to frame the speakers, drawing on their past collaborations. Together, they created a blend of sound and furniture design. The speakers feature white-washed ash wood or natural air-dried walnut casings, resting on brass pedestals for a contemporary look. The design preserves original features, including the grey-tone fabric from the initial release.
What motivated Kith to collaborate with Bose and Mark Jupiter on the Bose 901 speakers?
Interview with Ronnie Fieg: Kith’s Collaboration with Mark Jupiter and Bose
News Directory 3: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ronnie Fieg, the founder of Kith, about an exciting new project that blends audio innovation and furniture design. Kith has teamed up with renowned Brooklyn furniture designer Mark Jupiter and audio leader Bose to create a modern version of the iconic Bose 901 speakers. Thank you for joining us, Ronnie!
Ronnie Fieg: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to talk about this unique collaboration.
ND3: To start, can you tell us what inspired you to venture into this project, especially since Kith is primarily known for its apparel?
Fieg: Absolutely. My passion for music and design is what led me to this project. I’ve always believed that music should not only sound good but also look good. Often, in the world of audio, convenience overshadows aesthetics. I wanted to challenge that narrative and create something that enhances the listening experience both sonically and visually.
ND3: You mentioned the importance of design in the experience of music. How did you choose Mark Jupiter as your collaborator for this project?
Fieg: Mark and I have worked together in the past, and there’s a strong mutual respect for each other’s vision. I wanted someone who could frame the speakers in a way that highlighted their artistry and functionality. Mark has a unique ability to blend sound with furniture design, which is critical for achieving our goal.
ND3: The Bose 901 speakers have a rich history, having been launched in 1968. Why do you think it’s important to preserve this classic design while modernizing it?
Fieg: The Bose 901 has always been as much a piece of furniture as an audio device. Its timeless appeal is something we wanted to honor while introducing modern elements. By keeping original features like the grey-tone fabric and enhancing the casing with materials like white-washed ash and air-dried walnut, we celebrate the past while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design.
ND3: With only twelve pairs available, this collection must feel quite exclusive. What does that exclusivity mean to you and to Kith?
Fieg: Exclusivity is part of what makes this project special. It’s about creating a collectible piece that resonates with people who appreciate both the sound quality and aesthetic design. Each pair reflects our commitment to craftsmanship and our desire to make a statement in the space where audio and furniture converge.
ND3: You’ve mentioned in the past that aesthetics play a huge role in your work. How do you think this collaboration will influence future trends in music-related designs?
Fieg: I hope it ignites a renewed appreciation for the beauty of audio equipment. Other designers are beginning to treat speakers as decorative items rather than hidden away technology, and I believe that’s an important shift. When music items are visually compelling, they can become integral parts of our environments, rather than just functional tools.
ND3: It sounds like this collaboration is close to your heart. Can you share any insights on the creative process with Mark Jupiter and Bose?
Fieg: It was a collaborative effort from start to finish. We spent countless hours brainstorming ideas, materials, and finishes. Each decision was made with intention, ensuring that we remained true to the spirit of the original speakers while crafting something fresh. Working with Bose also brought a level of expertise that elevated the project.
ND3: Lastly, what message do you hope this collaboration sends to your audience?
Fieg: I want people to see the beauty in music and design, and to understand that they can coexist harmoniously. Music should inspire and elevate your surroundings. This project is about creating a timeless connection between sound and style, and I sincerely hope that it resonates with everyone who experiences it.
ND3: Thank you, Ronnie, for sharing these insights with us. We’re looking forward to seeing how this innovative collaboration unfolds!
Fieg: Thank you for having me! It was a pleasure discussing this project with you.
This collaboration represents a departure for Kith, but Fieg insists his interest in music and design led to this project, rather than following a particular trend. He believes that music-related items should be visually appealing, noting that convenience has often overshadowed aesthetics in music design.
Fieg’s passion for music shapes his work, as he aims to beautify the listening experience. Kith is recognized for various collaborations, including a sneaker partnership with New Balance and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Other designers are also reviving decorative speakers, celebrating their design rather than hiding them away. The photography for this project is credited to Kith.