For over a decade and a half, the Big Blue Blocks have sparked joy and creativity in children across the globe. The inception of the Blue Block Transportation Set stems from the observation of these blocks' immense popularity and the imaginative vehicular structures they've inspired. This new set is a testament to the power of play and the endless possibilities it holds for learning and development.
The Transportation Set stands out with its distinctive features, including new shapes that encourage the construction of various vehicles. This set is not only a continuation of the Big Blue Blocks legacy but also an expansion, offering children the tools to collaboratively build boats, planes, and more. The waterproof foam material ensures durability and adaptability for both indoor and outdoor environments, making it a versatile addition to any play space.
Each piece of the Transportation Set is meticulously handcrafted in Providence, Rhode Island, utilizing a patented foam technology. This hands-on manufacturing process ensures the highest quality and safety for children engaging with the blocks. The set includes over 100 interlocking pieces, ranging from wings and wheels to hexagons and trapezoids, providing a rich tapestry for the imagination.
The design of the Blue Block Transportation Set is intuitive and child-friendly. With life-sized components, children can easily manipulate and connect the blocks to bring their vehicular fantasies to life. The set's design incorporates two sizes of holes and cut-out areas for attaching wings and wheels, allowing for a seamless and secure construction experience.
From its conception in Spring 2021 to its launch in Spring 2023, the Blue Block Transportation Set has undergone rigorous testing and refinement. The design team faced challenges in balancing the versatility of the shapes with their recognizability to children, a hurdle they overcame through iterative testing and feedback. The result is a play set that is both innovative and accessible, sparking joy and creativity in children and earning recognition as a Bronze winner in the A' Playground Equipment, Play Structures and Public Park Design Award in 2024.
Imagination Playground's Blue Block Transportation Set is a shining example of how design can enhance play, learning, and social interaction. It stands as a beacon of creativity, encouraging children to explore the limits of their imagination while developing crucial cognitive and social skills. This award-winning design is not just a play set; it's a vehicle for growth, discovery, and the joy of creation.
Project Designers: Nicole Gilmer
Image Credits: Image #2: Photographer Davista Photography, 2022
Image #3: Photographer Davista Photography, 2022
Project Team Members: Nicole Gilmer
Project Name: Blue Block
Project Client: Imagination Playground