Childs Ride-on Toy

 

I was challenged with creating a child’s ride-on toy that would both coexist comfortably within a modern style home, and develop basic motor skills. Key factors that dictated my design were encouragement of movement and safety while maintaining the appearances and materials commonly found in homes.

I then proceeded by manufacturing a working prototype and implementing materials I found in my research that reflected modern furniture. I referenced both the appearance and function of bent plywood from Alvar Aalto's and Charles Eames lounge chairs. The curvature and natural characteristics of laminated wood functions by flexing then rebounding back to its original form in a spring-like motion. The final product engaged the child’s imagination during play with its insect form and bouncing action.