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Los Angeles Architect Planning Best Play Structure Ever

Los Angeles Architect Planning Best Play Structure Ever

LA architect Shawn Keltner, whose day job is lead designer at Los Angeles-based  tecDESIGN (the design branch of Swiss firm tecARCHITECTURE), is doing some important work on the side: developing a wondrous play structure for his two young daughters, Kelty and Kree, aged five and two. The irregularly-shaped, 50-square-foot building, which he will put together on his family’s sloped lot in Glassell Park, will be made out of home-made SIPs and clad with Hardie Panels and polycarbonate.

Because of the site’s slope, the structure will be raised over the ground, its front side supported via a pier and its back side dug into the hill. It will have a deck in back. Many other angles are meant, said Keltner, to make it,”just really fun,” giving it an interesting profile on the hillside and a uniqueness in a conventional neighborhood.

“My daughter Kelty is hoping for a bright red exterior, with orange and yellow accents,” added Keltner. “I’m not sure how that will work, but I am collaborating with my five-year-old so I might not have much choice in the matter.”

The discerning client (“she’s cool with the outside but is very set on what she wants on the inside,” noted Keltner) has insisted on two interior rooms—a black and white striped conversation room and a light brown reading room, where she can get a break from her younger sister. Those designs are still in negotiation. The structure will also double as a sleeping area for guests and family—A platform will fold down from the interior walls creating space for a full size bed. It will have running water and a small sink and, also a client must, a faux oven and cooktop. “I’m hoping to get it up pretty soon so I can keep them busy over the summer,” added Keltner.


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