Devon Turnbull's Hi-Fi Pursuit Listening Room Unveiled at Cooper Hewitt Museum

Devon Turnbull's Hi-Fi Pursuit Listening Room Unveiled at Cooper Hewitt Museum

The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum presents Devon Turnbull's latest installation, transforming the historic Carnegie Library into an immersive sound experience.

Content source: Designboom
Published on: 18 December 2025

In-depth analysis

Exhibitions and events

The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum presents 'Hi-Fi Pursuit Listening Room Dream No. 3' by Devon Turnbull, an innovative installation that invites visitors to engage with sound. Running through July, the exhibition repurposes a gallery in the historic Carnegie Library, merging high-fidelity audio systems with crafted interior design to enhance the auditory experience.

Artist highlights

Devon Turnbull's work exemplifies a unique fusion of sound and design, drawing inspiration from Japan's jazz cafés. His installations emphasize craftsmanship and sustainability, showcasing custom speaker sculptures that harmonize with historical architecture.

Audience reception

Visitors have responded positively to the immersive experience offered by Turnbull's listening room, appreciating the space's ability to foster stillness and focus. The curated music playlists enhance engagement, allowing audiences to explore various genres while enjoying the thoughtfully designed environment.

Future trends

The integration of sound art and design is expected to gain momentum, as installations like Turnbull's highlight the importance of auditory experiences in contemporary spaces. This trend may inspire future exhibitions that further explore the relationship between sound, architecture, and community.

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Why you should see this

Visiting 'Hi-Fi Pursuit Listening Room Dream No. 3' at the Cooper Hewitt offers a unique opportunity to experience sound in a tangible way. This installation challenges our understanding of everyday listening, inviting visitors to appreciate music as a physical and emotional experience. In a world filled with distractions, this immersive environment encourages genuine connection, allowing you to engage with sound in a mindful space.

Secrets of art

Devon Turnbull's installation draws inspiration from Japan's jazz cafés, which prioritize communal listening. These unique spaces cultivate an appreciation for sound, emphasizing the shared experience of music. This connection to culture highlights the importance of listening environments in fostering relationships and enhancing our auditory experiences.

The artist's hand

Marcus, 34, from Chicago, discovered his passion for sound design while studying architecture. His love for music transformed during a visit to a jazz café, where he felt an overwhelming sense of community through shared listening. When he entered the 'Hi-Fi Pursuit Listening Room Dream No. 3,' he was transported back to that moment. The carefully crafted audio system resonated with him, making him reflect on how sound can create spaces that connect people. For Marcus, the installation was not just art; it was a reminder of the power of listening and the connections it fosters.

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