An out-of-this-world dog kennel created by staff with Randell Design Group raised £850 for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home at auction
An out-of-this-world dog kennel created by staff from the School of Architecture, Art and Design (SAAD) and the Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries with , raised £850 for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home at auction yesterday (17 May).
The PAWDyssey kennel was shortlisted for the much-coveted Kennel Design Award at , part of .
Now in its fifth year, Barkitecture is a one-of-a-kind design competition that showcases an inspiring collection of contemporary kennels.
The competition brief challenged architects to design a kennel for ‘Dogs in Space’. They were encouraged to consider how a dog might travel into space, where they might live, or even to use space-age materials, all while providing the canine comforts of home.
PAWDyssey faced stiff competition from global players in the architectural and design world, including the LEGO Group with their U-Woof-O creation built from fairy bricks.
Barkitecture entrants were judged by Kevin McCloud MBE, astronaut Tim Peake CMG, interiors author and presenter Michelle Ogundehin (Interior Design Masters), comedian Bill Bailey and Séamus, Regimental Mascot of the Irish Guards on 17 May.
Each year, the brilliant architects and practices surpass themselves with their ingenuity and originality and I’m very much looking forward to seeing their cosmic creations.
The space-age kennels were then auctioned off by Bonhams Auction House and Gallery – where they had been displayed at a special preview event on 7 May.
During the auction, PAWDessy was hailed as ‘art in its own right’, as the auction house noted how beautifully crafted the kennel was.
After being seen and tested by 12,000 dogs – whose owners commented on how wonderfully well-made it was – it was declared runner up in the People and Paws Award.
Space exploration has always been about partnership, trust and companionship – qualities we share with our dogs every day. It’s great to see how that unique bond inspires these out-of-this-world kennels.
PAWDyssey is a modular pod kennel that adapts to the size of its canine traveller. The enclosed space offers security and sanctuary, while the base serves as a docking station stocked with food, water and toys.
The lead collaborator was Andy Young, a SAAD alumnus working at Randell Design, supported by Nicola Crowson, Associate Head (Students), SAAD.
It was made by the University’s 3D workshop technical team (Steve Oliver, Yvette Curtis and Steve Follington) using plywood, faux leather and acrylic. Current student Jack Gooch completed his 40-hour professional experience module on this project.
Space-age kennel
Space-age kennel