British architecture studio Foster + Partners has collaborated with plywood manufacturer Isokon to create a flat-pack dog kennel for Goodwoof’s annual Barkitecture competition.
The bed is characterised by its arched canopy made from a thin, flexible sheet of plywood – one of its self-assembly components that can be put together and taken apart so they can be stored easily.
The kennel was created for the 2023 iteration of the Barkitecture competition, which is run by Goodwood. this year the organisation challenged architects and designers to consider the positive impact that dogs have on people, specifically in workplace environments.
“It is a delight to present our design at Goodwoof, for the second year running,” said Norman Foster. “We have used a refined palette of materials to create Barc, a flat pack kennel that responds to the ever-evolving nature of the workplace.”
The kennel’s base is formed from a pair of dowels into which the canopy is secured.
The bent plywood section is held in place by a pairs of dowels affixed widthways, which support a fabric sling enclosing a cushioned pad made from coconut husks. The dowels are held in place by four wooden screws.
The bed was made from environmentally friendly materials and designed so it can be dissembled to be maintained or have parts replaced.
“The sparing use of material and detail is rooted in the idea of sustainability – to do more with less,” said Foster + Partners.
“Our design can be easily scaled up to accommodate larger breeds,” Foster + Partners senior partner Russell Hales told Dezeen.
“Barc will come in three sizes – small, medium and large – so it can be home to a variety of different dogs.”
“We have seen many dogs enjoying the kennel, including Oskar the West Highland Terrier, who features in our photographs,” Hales continued.
“Due to its inherent flexibility, Barc creates a familiar and comfortable space for canine companions, at their owner’s side.”
Barc is Foster + Partners’ second submission to the competition – its 2022 entry was a faceted, enclosed pet bed made from geodesically-carved cherry wood.
Other kennel designs that were featured in the competition last year include a futuristic pet bed informed by Star Wars by RSHP and a kennel lined with a colonnade of wooden bone-shaped motifs by Birds Portchmouth Russum Architects.
The photography is courtesy of Foster + Partners
Barc was unveiled at Goodwoof, which took place on Saturday 20 May and Sunday 21 May 2023. See Dezeen Events Guide for a list of other architecture and design events taking place around the world.
