Architecture studio De Matos Ryan has completed a modern pyramidal timber playhouse in the garden of a home in London and the structure is a striking addition that adds a whimsical character to the site. The practice aimed to create a playscape where the children of its client can enjoy and channel their imagination. The structure measures 4.1 meters high and is named Penfold after a character in Danger Mouse. Penfold also has a secret entry—it can be accessed via a "low crawlspace at its base," designating it as a kid-only zone.
De Matos Ryan composes the dreamy, timber playhouse out of Douglas fir frames. The timber playhouse also fills a void for the young family who "lamented the loss of an ailing tree in their neighbor’s garden," as De Matos Ryan explained.
Pyramidal Timber Playhouses
De Matos Ryan Creates Penfold, a 4.1 Metre High Playscape
Trend Themes
1. Timber Playhouses - The trend of utilizing timber to create whimsical playhouses is on the rise, creating opportunities within the home improvement and construction industries to explore sustainable material options for recreational structures.
2. Kid-only Zones - Designating spaces within residential properties that are exclusively for children can become a new trend within the home renovation and construction industries, as families seek to provide their children with creative and interactive spaces.
3. Whimsical Architecture - The use of unconventional architectural designs, such as pyramidal timber playhouses, can become a new trend in the architecture and real estate industries as consumers seek unique and creative living spaces.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architecture firms have an opportunity to explore new avenues for whimsical designs, like pyramidal timber playhouses, that can add creative and unique elements to traditional residential structures.
2. Construction - Construction companies can consider utilizing sustainable materials like timber to meet growing demand for whimsical and sustainable recreational structures like Penfold.
3. Home Improvement - The home improvement industry can explore a market for creating kid-only zones, like the one found in de Matos Ryan's Penfold design, in residential properties where families can nurture their children's imagination.