Buildmats project cover image. Featuring a backyard playhouse.

Project Overview

BUILDMATS is a modular playhouse construction set for children aged 5 to 7. It is designed to encourage children's natural creativity, physical and social play. Made of soft but firm mats, this set offers both safe and comfortable environment for kids to play around.

Project Timeline

Project Timeline
Project Timeline

Four Weeks

Four Weeks

My Role

My Role
My Role

Research
Ideation
Prototyping

Research
Ideation
Prototyping

Tools Used

Tools Used
Tools Used

Adobe Suite
Photoshop
Hand Building

Adobe Suite
Photoshop
Hand Building

Project Type

Project Type
Project Type

Industrial Design
Human Factors
Toy Design

Industrial Design
Human Factors
Toy Design

Design Process

Project background research and ideation.
Project background research and ideation.
Project background research and ideation.
Exploration of using gym mats for playhouse construction.
Exploration of using gym mats for playhouse construction.
Exploration of using gym mats for playhouse construction.
Exploration of mat component building configurations.
Exploration of mat component building configurations.
Exploration of mat component building configurations.
Images showcasing mat houses being used in child bedrooms and daycare.
Images showcasing mat houses being used in child bedrooms and daycare.
Images showcasing mat houses being used in child bedrooms and daycare.

Takeaways

In regards to products for children, safety is the major concern. Items and product features that are seen as safe and comfortable for adults may not be safe for children, especially during active play. While designing child toys and furniture, it is important to consider what can and may go wrong, and how the object may be misused.