Childhood games sungka, Chinese garter, kite-flying, and jolens (marbles), among others, were perhaps the major reason why many kids of the pre-smartphone and social media era weren’t able to clock in more afternoon nap time.
These toys and games hold a lot of childhood memories, which select furniture design students intended to revive through their furniture pieces.
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s Interior Design program and SM Aura Premier recently staged an exhibit that showed how children’s development can be correlated with design, both as an inspiration and as an output.
Dubbed Batibot, from the popular Philippine television program that aired from 1980s to 1990s, the exhibition showcased designs derived from various childhood games made by Furniture Design class students.
There was an accent chair inspired by the classic sungka game, a chair derived from the tiyakad racing game, a saranggola-inspired throne chair, and a bar stool that took after the traditional trumpo.
The students opted to rely on these traditional and local games to translate their skills and creativity into furniture design
On the other hand, Benilde’s Interior Design Exhibit class students renovated a day care center in Manila.
Thirteen graduating students lent their skills to renovate Barangay 753 Kabaka Day Care Center in Arellano Street, Singalong, Manila.
Benildeans conducted fundraising drives, such as the collection and sale of pre-loved clothes and blankets, books and toys, and kitchen and household items. The proceeds were used for the restoration of the day care center.
Interior design professor Randy Pabona proposed a classroom development plan, based on principles and theories from lectures, which included the classroom, restroom, kitchen, and exterior play area.
“Our main objective was to give a proper design for day care students. If the space is clean, well-ventilated, and beautiful, kids would be more productive,” said Pabona.
Learning materials such as storybooks, building blocks and wooden peg letters, numbers, and shapes were likewise integrated to keep the kids inspired and motivated.
The refurbishing took a month to complete.
“Through this project, we were able to maximize our skills and create a significant impact on the children as well as the community,” enthused Fanchesca Juliano, Interior Design student and head of the Batibot Project.
The team also distributed school supplies and toys to help the kids get a head start for the school year.
