As some of you know, Spillman Farmer recently completed work on SlatHouse, a full-size children's playhouse for the AIA Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter's Playhouse Competition & Design Showcase. The experience was a great one, and we're happy to use our passion for design to help out the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley. You can read more about the competition here: wfmz.com
We wanted the playhouse to be
something kids not only play in, but on, under, and around as well. It
has the elements of a house, but isn’t. It has the materials of a pirate
ship, without the scurvy crew. And it has the protection of a fort, but
can be invaded by Mom when it’s time for dinner. The simple, yet
versatile design of the SlatHouse allows for the child’s imagination to fill
the voids, creating infinite opportunities for play. The flexibility of
the fabric adds another element to the otherwise static enclosure of the
frame. On a daily basis, or as a child ages, the playhouse may take on
new forms and new uses by simply “dressing” it in a new way. The durable
fabric can provide protection from rain, a drawing surface for washable
markers, or a picnic blanket when laid on the grass.
Keeping the material palette
simple is something Spillman Farmer prides itself on, and being able to do more
with less is a valuable lesson to teach children of all ages. The wood is
thermally modified yellow pine - a common material for outdoor use because of
its resistance to rot and insect damage. No chemicals are used in the
process, making the wood safe to touch, smell, and for some kids, even
taste. The fabric pieces are heavy-duty vinyl that will provide a
bright color and durability that will withstand harsh winters and destructive
children, alike. Our hope is that children will use the SlatHouse in ways
we (as adult designers who know what a house "should" look like) cannot imagine.
SlatHouse is on display at Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem starting today! Head over before December 22 to bid for a chance to take this playhouse home. All proceeds from the auction benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley.
The Spillman Farmer SlatHouse was built by Spillman and sponsored by:
3 Cubed Studio
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