Lisa Lai and Joel Wong · CLIENT: Tati
Balanco is a set of stackable blocks that serve as seating, tables and play objects. The multifaceted blocks can be arranged, positioned and stacked in many ways. Balancing the blocks requires patience and calmness, so Balanco can be shared by friends and families at home. The structure is foam based and lightweight, and the earth-tone felt finish is soft to touch. The blocks are safe for young children and remain solid enough for adults to sit on. Varying sizes suit the heights of both children and adults.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Balanco consists of a series of multifaceted blocks, offering unlimited possibilities to arrange, position, and stack. As it requires significant patience and calmness to balance the blocks, it serves as one of the practical yet fun solutions for friends and families to enjoy with one another. When it is not used as objects for play, it doubles as stools and tables for adults and children.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Largest block- 600mm x 450mm x 350mm
Smallest block- 350mm x 350mm x 350mm
Felt finishing and foam-based structure. - Tags
- stool, table, toy, furniture, children, stacking, facets, play, kids, family
- Production Technology
- The lightweight and solid structure makes it suitable and safe for young children. The earth-tone felt finish aims to invite nature vibes into the house. It is soft and comfortable to touch.
- Design Challenge
- The challenge was to create a series of stackable furniture that is lightweight and safe for children even when the blocks topple over. At the same time, it is solid and strong for adults to sit and stand on them. This obstacle was overcomed as we experimented with various materials, details and manufacturing methods.
- Project Duration
- The project started in October 2020, and finished in December 2020. It was documented and exhibited as part of the HKTDC's programme in Hong Kong.
- Operation Flow
- Balanco functions as play objects, stools and tables. The varying sizes accommodate the ergonomics and heights from young children to adults.
- Research
- The design intent was to deliver a design with a strong concept, through aesthetic simplicity.
- Inspiration
- With the persistence of the pandemic, staying at home has become a new norm. In most highly populated and dense cities, finding peace and mental wellness can be difficult. Inspired by the pebble towers, Balanco offers a way to find physical and inner balance, while learning to collaborate with others in the process of playing.
- Image Credits
- Lisa J. Lai, 2020
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