In an extraordinary display of architectural innovation, Foster + Partners has unveiled the remarkable Barc dog kennel, designed specifically for the prestigious Goodwoof Barkitecture competition, showcasing visionary kennel designs at the esteemed Goodwood venue in West Sussex.
Crafted from lightweight plywood, this ingenious kennel is a response to this year's compelling brief, which called upon architects to explore the profound impact dogs have on human well-being, particularly within office settings. Comprising a few simple components, the Barc kennel can be effortlessly assembled, disassembled, and efficiently stored, rendering it highly suitable for both office and home environments. Remarkably adaptable, Barc creates a comforting sanctuary for our loyal canine companions, right by their owners' side.
Norman Foster, the visionary Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners, expressed his delight in presenting their design at Goodwoof for the second consecutive year. He remarked, "It is an absolute pleasure to unveil Barc at Goodwoof, an event that continues to captivate us. Employing a refined palette of materials, we have crafted a flat pack kennel that effortlessly adapts to the ever-evolving nature of the workplace."
In close collaboration with the esteemed plywood manufacturing company Isokon, Foster + Partners meticulously developed the high-performance structural shell of the kennel. A single, exquisitely thin sheet of plywood is artfully held in tension by two opposing timber dowels, ingeniously forming the kennel's strikingly arched roof. An inviting fabric sling, incorporating a sustainable cushion crafted from coconut husk, elegantly stretches across the dowels, creating a luxuriously comfortable elevated dog bed. This design approach, characterized by minimal use of materials and exquisite attention to detail, embodies the essence of sustainability, achieving more with less.
