When we look across history and how cities have evolved over time, we can see that structures and buildings play an important role in society. They have developed through history and have been used for a variety of purposes across communities for example, bridges, major landmarks, stadiums and sacred religious sites. As you travel across a bridge, have you ever wondered “how could it possibly hold all this weight and still continue to stand for years and years?’ Did you know that the oldest known bridge dates back over 3000 years in Greece and it was created to connect different cities. Since then, bridges have been built using the principles established by the Ancient Greeks, modifying materials, technology and designs to suit the needs of each region. Similar to the marvels of bridges, have you ever been curious about why the Eiffel Tower exists? Did you know that the Eiffel Tower isn’t just an icon that makes Paris recognisable? It was built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Or perhaps you’ve wondered at the unique designs of architectural structures like the Sydney Opera House. This famous Australian icon was actually inspired by nature. Each and every structure, many we know today as key landmarks or functional constructions that help us in our everyday lives, were designed and created for different purposes throughout history. Many of these have been through a process of trial and error, modified over time to improve designs. The materials used have been adjusted with the development of technology, while structures have also enhanced their purpose as well as their functionality.
Have you ever watched a child build a structure while they are immersed in free play and noticed how they alter their designs as they go? They think about the design, the purpose and the intricacies of how they will use this in their scene, and even as their play continues, they make additions and modifications along the way. Just like the Ancient Greeks and the architects of the Eiffel Tower and Sydney Opera House, children are learning the basic principles of building and design through their play.
All structures begin by meeting a need and go through a basic planning process to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. This includes:
- Planning the design, considering:
- Form: The shape and structure of the building, thinking about where it will be placed and the materials it will be made from.
- Function: The flow and functionality of the layout (both inside and outside the building), where items will be placed such as windows and whether they will allow natural light to flow through the building.
- Space: The size of each of the spaces within the overall structure.
- Aesthetics: The appearance of the design.
- Building the creation.
- Analysing any adjustments that need to be made.
- Making improvements and documenting these.
- Reflecting on the process.
The innovators of well-known structures such as the The Colosseum – which was built as part of a revival effort for the city of Rome and used as an amphitheater for spectator viewing, and the Pyramids of Giza – which were built as tombs for pharaohs who had passed away, honoring their legacy and housing the items they would need in the afterlife, had a purpose in mind. Architects and engineers then developed a plan to execute the amazing structures that we know of and marvel at today. After a need has been established, a design is created that aims to integrate functionality with purpose. While also taking into consideration aspects such as a structure’s size, placement in its surroundings, environmental factors, the layout and features inside-and-outside the structure, and its ability to hold up varying weights. As an architect continues to plan, they make adjustments to their designs as they delve deeper into the planning phase, solving problems as they arise.
Having great tools that are flexible and versatile, that facilitate a child’s need to become creative, allowing them to meet the needs of their play time and time again, are a must in every home. CONNETIX magnetic tiles are the perfect open-ended toy that have the ability to meet children’s natural characteristics of curiosity, inventiveness and experimentation, whilst adapting to the ever-changing goals and purposes of their play.
Using open-ended materials are so important because they allow children the flexibility they need to alter their creations as they go. They can also be repeatedly used for different projects. Through these hands-on experiences, children can experiment with the key skills needed for real world success, providing qualities they will evidently use throughout their lives in a variety of situations, such as problem solving and innovation.
