Process
We conducted 4 visits to Bournemouth square where we observed how teens interact with the space. Our site visit led to some interesting insights about the area where we found that teens often walk straight through the square in groups, without stopping for anything, implying that there wasn’t much excitement in the area that gave teens a reason to stay.
Site Visit
We found 3 key issues with the site which needed addressing - there is currently nothing keeping teens engaged in the square, there are limited areas for teens to sit in groups and there is nearly no shade in the area, and the site is used as a direct walkthrough for shoppers.
What Did We Find Out?
Using our primary site visits combine with user research, the next stage was to define the opportunities for development in our area. We needed to design something that grabbed the initial attention of teenagers, something that kept their interest long enough to have them engage with something in the process which would help develop their connection to nature.
Our Plan
After investigating the key issues and our target audience, we came up with The Hive - an interactive bee themed intervention consisting of a hexagonal shaped structure offering teens the chance to climb and explore several sensory activities. Inside the structure gives teens the chance to see life through the eyes of a bee thanks to carefully configured stain glass windows providing a “hive like” experience.
Our Solution
Early sketches of the hive idea
As well as the main hive structures, we also wanted to introduce a more interesting seating option. I designed these hexagonal wooden pods that would not only provide an enclosed seating option for small groups, but would also allow teens to climb the pods and admire the view of bournemouth gardens from the top. Behind the stairs also provided a more private option for seating, allowing for teens who visit the site alone to sit in a more intimate space if they wanted.
The Structures
For the branding, we knew we needed to design something bold to instantly grab the attention of teens and get them talking. I took inspiration from Morag Myerscough’s abstract style to create a vibrant pattern that would be stenciled on top of the wooden structures. Amongst the pattern are hidden illustrations relating to bees and nature. From a distance, the illustrations may not be obvious, but they are designed to draw teens closer to the structures out of curiosity.
