Problem:   
Children love building forts and imaginative structures with everyday objects, but existing furniture is rigid and limits creative play.

The challenge was to design a system that balances open-ended play with durable, functional furnituresuitable for everyday use.


Research & Inspiration:   

  • Began with quick concept sketches to explore forms, shapes, and configurations


     


  • Created a cardboard prototype for hands-on user testing






  • Created a cardboard prototype for hands-on user testing
  • Conducted testing with children aged 8–12, giving minimal instructions to observe natural building behaviors
  • Children interpreted components in surprisingly creative ways, including building...


    • “Overalls”
    “Bookshelf”
    “Table to grow a tree through”
             
    “Table with
      storage compartments”
    “Obstacle Coarse”       

  • These examples highlighted that children have no limits to creativity when given open-ended tools.
        

    Key Insights: 
    • Open-ended components encouraged creativity and experimentation
    • Cardboard was too weak for stable, larger builds
    • Sharp edges posed safety concerns
    • Lacked visual appeal, reducing excitement and attention
        

    Design Iteration:

    • Switched to plywood for structural stability, ease of manufacturing, and flat-pack shipping
    • Rounded and sanded edges to improve safety
    • Added subtle, gender-neutral color accents for visual engagement
    • Refined joinery and geometric forms to allow versatile configurations without overwhelming complexity
        


    Final Results:


    A modular furniture system that supports imaginative play, is safe and durable, and can be reconfigured endlessly. Children can build, explore, and interact with the system as both functional furniture and a creative tool.




                            
                                                                                                       

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