MySpace Cubby

by Grimshaw Architects

The MySpace Cubby was designed by Grimshaw Architects as a positive space for children to experience a variety of different senses.

Architects have reconceptualised the traditional space of a kids cubby house by transforming a rigid form into a unique space. In this cubby house, children can create their own space by manipulating various sizes blocks across four levels to fill voids, provide openings or be used as furniture or storage.

Workshopping the design of this cubby house involved the contribution of children, who were invited along to help create a flexible and creative retreat, where reoccurring themes and element concepts were incorporated into the final design; with orange being the popular choice of colour by most children.

The outcome is a unique space for children, who are given the opportunity to create a sense of ownership with the encouragement of creativity. It has been cleverly designed to fit most urban backyards, with a visual design appeal for both day and night; suited for both a public and private space.

Design of the cubby house consists of a frame made from Tasmanian Oak beams, which can be easily held onto by small hands. Each member has been machine cut and routed to form a cross profile which integrates horizontal rails, allowing for boxes to be safely and easily manoeuvred and negating.

A translucent polycarbonate cladding system was also created and offers children a sense of concealment, whilst still allowing visibility to the outside. Providing a clean façade finish by concealing all screw fixings on the cubby house.

Hoop Pine plywood was used for the moveable boxes, which is a sustainable material with FSC certification which may be reused or re-purposed. The boxes are wrapped in high-density foam and covered with external-grade fabric.

LED strip lighting is placed in the internal corners of the frame to illuminate the interior and allow the cubby to ‘glow’ at night.

Grimshaw worked closely with the builder to deliver a cubby that is of the highest quality. Undertaken pro bono, a high level of efficiency and commitment was required by all allied disciplines to ensure that the aspirations of the design were met.

Through an architectural response to the Cubby House Challenge, MySpace has helped elevate the profile of Kids Under Cover and raise significant funds for the youth homelessness prevention programme.

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