PlayPly
The aim of this project was to create a modular furniture piece geared toward children, that not only fulfills its practical function but also sparks imagination and fosters creativity through play
After some initial concept sketching I crafted a basic cardboard prototype to conduct user research and testing.
My intention was to ensure that the design didn't overwhelm with complexity or imply a single correct assembly method. Thus, I opted for simple geometric shapes to maintain versatility and foster creative freedom
I conducted user research by giving children of different ages the freedom to interpret and create with the sketch model. I handed them the prototype with no more instructions than to make something and tell me what they made.
It was fascinating to observe how they interacted with the prototype and what they constructed. Their creative interpretations provided invaluable insights into their preferences and abilities, guiding me in refining the final design based on their feedback.
-WHAT THE KIDS MADE-
-WHAT THE KIDS MADE-
-WHAT THE KIDS MADE-
Final Results
For the final prototype, I chose to craft the piece using plywood, staying true to my commitment to simple geometric forms and versatile joinery. This approach allows the individual components to be arranged in various imaginative configurations. Plywood offered the durability needed for the structure to function as real, usable furniture while still enabling children to customize and build freely. Additionally, the use of flat panels supports flat-pack design, minimizing storage space and simplifying both production and shipping.