The humble building block. For centuries, this iconic shape has helped humans reach fantastic architectural heights, understand the crystalline structures of our minerals on earth, and take us to the great beyond with advancements in materials technology. In childhood, toy blocks foster many fine motor and relational skills, two of the most crucial facets of growing up. This shape stands the test of time, some variation of which forming all of our homes and workplaces. Here, we see these instances of blocks in childhood and architecture in adulthood combined to produce Blockitecture® Frank Lloyd Wright – Usonian by James Paulius for Areaware. This playful rendition of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, classically low to match the surrounding American landscape, is a perfect balance of tinker and toy.
The science on blocks is clear – early adoption of spatial reasoning skills is a solid predictor of working in STEM, building skills essential to most, if not all positions within the field. The delicate balance of materiality and form within the context of site was essential to Frank Lloyd Wright’s design philosophy. Taking inspiration directly from the renowned architect’s signature style, “organic architecture,” the blocks are set around a hexagonal axis. They feature distinct dimensions and colored sides that set a specific block apart from the rest. All in pleasing, natural hues, the palette blends with the light shade of the New Zealand pine. Water-based, non-toxic paint adorns the sides of the hexagonal pieces, free to stack and nestle as you please.
The pieces all lined up have a cohesion that not only likens them to each other, but the other Blockitecture® sets available at Areaware as well. Each set, also designed by Paulius, is a celebration of the iconic skylines we all know and love, within the context of building toys. Bright, dynamic colors keep the blocks fun and approachable, while the intricacy of the shapes keep them engaging.
James Paulius is a New York City-based designer. Much of his work revolves around blocks that are inspired by architecture, urban planning, and landscape design. His designs aim to promote an understanding of physicality through the lens of play and possibility. He hopes this will allow children to realize their potential to shape the world around us, and create better futures for generations to come.
Areaware collaborates with independent designers to offer fun, funky pieces for the design-minded person. They work with established brands and smaller studios alike, ensuring a fresh perspective is always at the forefront of their collection. They explain: “We believe the best design evokes good feelings, and think everyday objects should be as fun as they are functional.”
For more on Blockitecture® Frank Lloyd Wright – Usonian set, visit areaware.com.
Photography by Emma Fishman and Areaware.
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