Caos
(UNIVERSITY)
POLITECNICO DI MILANO
(COURSE)
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCT DESIGN
(CLASS)
FINAL SYNTHESIS
LABORATORY
(MAIN AREAS)
TOY DESIGN
(YEAR)
2019
“Caos. Il primo luogo” is a modular play space designed for children aged 6 to 18 months, created to be the first safe and stimulating environment in which to grow. The name recalls the concept of a “first place” — an intimate, protective refuge — and the idea of creative disorder that embodies a child’s exploratory imagination. “Caos” allows children to develop without limitations, inviting them to transform the surrounding space through creativity and play.
The set is designed to accompany little ones through their early stages of development: from lying down and developing their first manual gestures to crawling, sitting up, and taking their first steps. Each element, crafted from soft, durable materials like memory foam and polyurethane foam, addresses specific motor and sensory needs, supporting children as they explore their abilities.
The sinuous and interactive shapes of “Caos” can be freely assembled to create endless combinations. With its 24 strategically placed holes, the mat is a base to anchor the other pieces, transforming it into a construction game. Each element has a unique function: Nuvola ergonomically supports the child at rest, Onda provides seating support, and Ciuffo helps develop motor skills. With additions like Arco, which creates a passageway to crawl under, and Libra, which rocks and encourages balance, each surface and connection opens up new avenues for exploration and play.
Each set element is highlighted through graphics that celebrate its playful shape. Depicting an imaginary world, the product’s visual communication aims to spark public curiosity and invite them to learn more about the project.
The base set comes in colourful, vibrant packaging, designed to reflect the playful character of “Caos.” Its graphic design aims to create an immediate connection with the imagination of both children and parents.
The project concept arose from a careful investigation into children’s needs, stimuli, and developmental modes, made possible through field observations in nurseries and homes, along with direct dialogue with parents. “Caos” is thus a “first place” where discovery, movement, and imagination merge in a modular, safe, and customisable space, offering children a creative freedom that continually evolves