Let’s face it, parents have been
giving their kids classic wooden toys, building blocks, and plastic puzzles since the wheel was
invented. The conventional wisdom: cheap, sturdy, safe and natural. This
thinking has battled technology and withstood the test of time, even as most
toy stores have become accompanied by robotic interludes of beeping buttons and
batteries. But to our dismay, these beautifully simplistic toys too often get lost in the shuffle of intricate and complex technology.
To our delight, a conservative
response to the cyber-toy revolution has manifested itself in the form of new
versions of these classic toys; created by innovative, minimalistic and green
designers. London-based designer Oscar Diaz is returning to the golden days,
taking a unique approach to playtime. He has created a new line of “Tube Toys,”
which are without bells and whistles, or fancy packaging. In fact, its packing is the toy. The “tubes” come with stickers, wheels, and
pre-cut slots that allow your child to assemble his car (or fire
engine, train or tractor), resourcefully using every piece provided to him or
her. The beauty of Diaz’ design lies in the fact that the box is the body of the toy, the only waste being a plastic
wrapper.
While
rudimentary in appearance, its beauty lies in simplistic design and Diaz’s
vision for a more creative youth. He argues that more complex toys only hinder
a child’s inquisitive and imaginative nature, limiting him or her to a rigid
and unoriginal path. A basic toy, like his “tubes” allow a child’s creative
mind to run wild. “A toy is just a bit of structure for them to support their
narrative. The Tube Toys intend to create that structure,” claims Diaz.
Oscar Diaz’ perspective is truly
refreshing as he endeavors to inspire inventive and imaginative play. Here at
ducduc we love to see innovative, green and simplistic design. His Tube Toys
will be available in two weeks via NPW. You can see
his other designs on his website.
Also check out our friends over at “Organic BabyChick,” who continue to create fantastic, non-toxic and consciously constructed
toys, available at their online store.
*Quote courtesy of Fast Company Design
