Alpine 3D Puzzle: A Unique and Educational Toy

A Fun and Engaging Way to Explore the Julian Alps

The idea behind the Alpine 3D puzzle is to provide a tool for visitors to the Slovene alpine museum to explore and understand the Julian Alps in a hands-on and interactive way. The puzzle consists of three main groups of elements: large puzzle pieces of different thicknesses that can be used to create valleys and hills, 17 elements representing typical alpine flora and fauna, and mountain ranges that can be arranged to complete a full Julian Alps ring or assembled freely in a linear or perpendicular manner.

What sets the Alpine 3D puzzle apart is its attention to detail and unique design. The puzzle pieces are printed in three different colors - green, brown/red, and grey - to symbolize the three types of alpine landscapes: meadows, forest floors, and rocks. These colors also represent the changing seasons, with green for spring/summer, brown/red for autumn, and grey for winter (snow). The abstract animals featured in the puzzle have their own distinct character, adding an element of fun and imagination to the experience.

The Alpine 3D puzzle is not just a toy; it is also a learning tool and a spatial installation. It encourages creativity, problem-solving, and spatial awareness. By constructing the puzzle in different ways, users can create their own microenvironments and explore the connections between different elements of the alpine landscape.

The puzzle is made from high-quality materials, including birch plywood for the puzzle elements and mountains, and beech plywood for the animals. The pieces are CNC cut, printed, and protected with water varnish, while the animals are oiled with tunga oil for a smooth and natural finish. The puzzle measures up to 250/250 cm, depending on how it is assembled.

The development of the Alpine 3D puzzle was not without its challenges. The designers had to create a logic for the puzzle that would appeal to children of different ages and allow for a wide range of creative possibilities. Extensive research was conducted to ensure the accuracy and abstraction of the flora and fauna elements, resulting in hand-drawn illustrations that capture the essence of the alpine landscape.

The Alpine 3D puzzle was first conceptualized in August 2015 and executed between January and April 2017. It is currently displayed at the Slovene alpine museum in Mojstrana, Slovenia, where it continues to captivate visitors and inspire a love for the Julian Alps.

With its unique design, educational value, and engaging gameplay, the Alpine 3D puzzle has received recognition in the design community. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Toys, Games, and Hobby Products category in 2018. This prestigious award recognizes the puzzle's well-designed, practical, and innovative nature, as well as its ability to meet professional and industrial requirements.