Lakeland College's interior design technology students are raffling off a playhouse to fund next year's field trip to the Toronto Interior Design Show. The students both designed and constructed the playhouse.
The playhouse is 8' wide x 10' long x 12' high with vertical vinyl siding and architectural asphalt shingles. It also contains keyless front and rear entries, plexiglass operable windows, and a rooftop solar panel, which is powering exterior and interior lights. Inside, its walls, floor and attic are fully insulated, and sealed with a vapor barrier. Interior walls are finished in plywood and the floors are covered with vinyl plank. There is a main floor as well as a loft. The vaulted ceiling is covered with oak hardwood
“This project created hands-on skills that the students can use in their future careers as designers,” says Jordan Kalczak, instructor for the program. “They used saws, wood, nails and paint to create the structure. They have more respect for the tradespeople they will work with and a better understanding of the concepts they are learning in class by putting these fundamentals into physical form.”
Alyssa Remenda, a first-year IDT student, says, “The playhouse project has been a great hands-on experience. This is something that was just introduced to our program and has been an awesome way to learn about the construction aspect of our program.”
The experiential learning aspect of the project extends beyond the design and construction of the playhouse as well, explains Rochelle Horne, IDT program head.
On the trip, the students will see and experience real-world design settings, witnessing the practical application of design principles. They'll visit culturally and historically significant spaces to foster an understanding of the context of architecture and interior design. They'll connect and network with interior designers, architects, product representatives and other professionals in the field.
“The Toronto field trip provides a tangible and immersive understanding of the human experience within designed spaces,” Horne says. “It cultivates empathy and influences students to create designs that are aesthetically pleasing and responsive to the diverse needs and emotions of the people they serve.”
Tickets for the playhouse raffle are $10 and can be purchased here. The draw will be held on Dec. 6, 2024.
Want to check the playhouse out in person? It will be on display at the Vermilion Fair on July 25-28, 2024.
The playhouse was made possible through generous donations from Home Hardware Lloydminster, Beaver Home and Cottages Lloydminster, Toma Fine Floors 2021, Shelly's Window Coverings Ltd., Modern Edge Painting and the Lakeland College sustainable energy technology program.