( Rinnai ) Remote controller MBC-332VC

As Rinnai’s core water heating and heating systems evolved to offer a broader range of functions, optional equipment, and smartphone connectivity, a new user interface was needed to make these increasingly complex features more intuitive to operate. At the same time, functions such as the Micro Bubble Bath Unit—designed to enhance the quality of everyday living—called for a remote control with an equally refined presence. The project therefore set out to create a quiet, noise-free design that would integrate naturally into the home while embodying Rinnai’s brand world at one of its most important points of interaction with users. Beginning with Rinnai’s philosophy and brand promise of supporting healthy and comfortable ways of living, we looked beyond the physical form of the remote itself to consider the entire sensory experience. This included not only the interface and interaction design, but also the quality of music playback through smartphone connectivity, operation sounds, and other subtle details that contribute to a sense of refinement.

Through the project, we established “Shitsujitsu-Goken” as a design philosophy for Rinnai’s future products—an expression of integrity, simplicity, robustness, and uncompromising craftsmanship. For the remote control, this philosophy was translated into three principles: to be composed only of essential elements, creating a timeless and noise-free presence; to convey solidity, durability, and trust; and to achieve a disciplined, precise, and highly refined design. The physical form is reduced to two primary elements: a transparent front panel with a carefully considered thinness and a substantial matte body. The interface follows the same discipline, using only essential information arranged within a rigorous visual structure. A color LCD and capacitive touch controls provide intuitive interaction, while the restrained use of color keeps the display visually quiet. Color appears only where it carries meaning, supported by subtle animation to enhance usability. The result balances intuitive functionality with the refined, understated presence expected of an architectural fixture—translating Rinnai’s design philosophy consistently across form, interface, sound, and experience.