Within our creative design workshops at Furzedown Primary School, we were lucky to acquire a set of estate agents boards which were destined for the recycling centre. We wanted to see how we could take these two-dimensional (flat) sheets and give them three-dimensional qualities and structural integrity, with as little modification as possible. This is the result of a number of experiments and uses interlocking diagonal slots which means they can achieve a free-standing structural form with three boards, using structural triangles.
Before modifying the boards we investigated how they might work using scaled-down card pieces, with card people to give a relative size. Lots of different methods of linking them were tried, with the most successful ones developed.
Diagonal slots worked most efficiently. With the connections on the corners, it meant the students had to think specially beyond the normal conventions of the x, y and z axis.
The kids enjoyed the unconventional spaces they produced and the differences in light that varying angles produced. There was lots of enthusiasm for creating different structures.
The full size boards have become a bit of a hit at the school, beyond the Architecture workshops. At each break time and lunch time they have become a popular activity where groups of friends can play together to make spaces, and create their own designs.
It's also proven to make a useful team building exercise. When groups of children work together with a set of boards, no one can be the dominant instructor, and no one can be the follower. Because of the way they fit, balance, find structural integrity and make spaces in unusual ways, it turns in to a very collaborative process where each person holding a board gives instruction and works with feedback to find a solution.
On hot summer days they are great for pitching up a quick shelter, to chill with friends and and enjoy lunch.
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