We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Menghai Xia about their original and creative Speaker design work. Menghai Xia is an award-winning industrial designer, that makes our world a better place with their original speaker works.
Menghai Xia ("MX") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Nostalx Speaker. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
MX : My design principle is to balance the emotional and functional value of a product. During the research phase, I studied the history of music storage and playback products and found that the emotional value of music storage products—especially vinyl records—has far exceeded their functional value in users’ minds. This led me to explore how music playback products could enhance their emotional appeal.
MX : NostalX draws heavily from retro aesthetics, striving to convey a nostalgic atmosphere through its form, color palette, materials, and interaction style. I wanted it to be a product that blends aesthetics with functionality—an expression of personal taste and identity. Simply put, I wanted it to be the kind of object that catches your friends' attention the moment they visit your home, making them say, “Wow, this is so cool—I want one too!”
MX : We conducted extensive user research in the early stages of design and gathered consumer feedback after the concept was completed. The design has been well-received and highly anticipated. I sincerely hope to bring it to music lovers someday in the future.
MX : It took about two months from concept development to building the full-scale prototype.
MX : This project stemmed from my personal interest in music. I’m passionate about listening to music and collecting related products. Through in-depth user research and historical analysis, I identified a unique design opportunity and created NostalX.
MX : It’s an honor to receive this award. As for production plans, we are still in the process of discussion and consideration.
MX : My sensitivity to market trends and understanding of various interest-based communities inspired this project.
MX : It’s hard to name one specific designer, but I’d say my work is significantly influenced by the Bauhaus design philosophy.
MX : Music lovers with refined taste, who are willing to invest time and money in music-related collectibles and products.
MX : While most modern electronics shift toward touchscreen interfaces, NostalX goes in the opposite direction. It emphasizes physical interaction—knobs, dials, and tactile feedback—which brings a sense of security and satisfaction in our fast-paced digital world.
MX : As the name suggests, “NostalX” comes from “nostalgia.” The “X” hints at the diversity of its color and CMF (color, material, finish) configurations.
MX : I primarily used Rhino for 3D modeling and KeyShot for rendering.
MX : NostalX completely abandons digital displays and interactions, opting instead for engaging tactile and visual experiences. The interactive elements—like knobs and buttons—are seamlessly integrated into the design language, embodying both functional and aesthetic value.
MX : I was fortunate to collaborate with teammates from FFBA who supported me during concept exploration and prototyping. I also received valuable input on circuit design from a friend with electrical engineering knowledge.
MX : Based on initial concept sketches, we carefully redesigned the circuitry and interaction layout when creating the full-scale functional prototype. This ensured the internal components supported functionality while remaining visually harmonious with the overall form.
MX : Yes, our design was informed by both user research and historical research. We reviewed academic papers and historical documentation, and collected qualitative data via surveys and one-on-one interviews to gain insights into user needs and market trends.
MX : The most challenging part was building a 1:1 prototype that met both aesthetic and functional expectations. But completing it brought an immense sense of accomplishment.
MX : As a designer, I’m eager to participate in competitions to test and improve my skills. A' Design Award is one of the most prestigious platforms in the field, which made it an ideal choice.
MX : This project sharpened my skills in historical research and prototyping. It also broadened my design language, enabling me to work more confidently across different visual styles.
MX : As an industrial designer, I’m excited to see the resurgence of interest in physical products driven by the retro trend. I’m honored that my design has been recognized by industry experts and appreciated by its intended audience. I hope NostalX can make its way into people’s lives in the near future.
