Hut building for kids

2021

Comparison between a modular and a non-modular system

«Which of the two systems, modular or non-modular, is a better support for playing children and therefore make the advantages of hut building more accessible for their psychological development?»

Who did not love to build huts when they were kids? Under the bed, around the sofa as well as outside in the forest playing with branches to create a shelter. Hut building is a creative experience in addition to be important for the psychosocial and motoric development of children. In this project, two systems for building such huts are investigated, in which everyday objects are intrigued. The aim is to find out which one is a better option for kids while playing and therefore makes hut building more accessible.

Playing is a core aspect of a child's development. I have focused on this topic because as a designer I want to create new solutions and enable children to play.This thesis deals with different aspects of hut buildings and how they can support children's creativity and imagination. It also explores the importance of play and general development in early childhood. In order to arrive at a completion and final design, the two systems, one modular (Hookut) and one static (Wheelut), were tested with three children. From the interviews with the parents, it was concluded that the two systems are preferable to be used together as they offer the children a variety of possibilities to experiment.

About Claudia

Claudia has studied Product design in NABA Milan and at Pratt Institute. After her graduation she worked as a product designer in Munich and finally decided to join the Masterstudio Studio Industrial Design.

Final Thought:

Although I was back home in Switzerland, the Masterstudio made me feel like I was still working in an international context.

Mentors:

Prof. Werner Baumhakl, Nicole Schneider

, Studio Industrial Design

Prof. Dr. Ralf Trachte, Meret Ernst, Alfredo Häberli

, Studio Industrial Design