This past summer, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) sponsored a competition for architects to design their own interpretation of a Barbie® DreamHouse™. Five finalists were chosen, and then they were put to a public vote. The winning design, which was submitted by Ting Li, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP and Maja Paklar, Assoc. AIA, features solar panels, a landscaped rooftop and irrigation system, operable shading devices, bamboo flooring, and low flow toilet and sink fixtures.
It also has a meditation space, a home gym, and a 1,500 square foot entertainment area. Spaces in the house include a computer-controlled tower closet and a 1,500-square-foot space for entertainment facilities and a chef’s kitchen. The house is designed to be built on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The contest coincided with the launch of a new Barbie doll – “Barbie I Can Be… Architect Doll” with Mattel, in an effort to engage and inspire young girls to experience the world of architecture and design thinking. Architect Barbie is promoted with the phrase, “Your daughter can play out her dream of being an innovative, creative architect!” and the doll has a outfit featuring the bold colors and clean lines of the city skyline, has black rimmed glasses, a hart hat, and a carrying case for her latest designs, and a model Dream House.
The winning Dreamhouse is not planned to be built, so it seems like Barbie will still be living in her old place for now.
Image Source:
www.artrick-playground.com
American Institute of Architects
Links:
Architect Barbie Dream House Competition – AIA Contest
AIA Declares Winner of Architect Barbie Dream House Contest – Design Taxi