The R/DA team was thrilled to participate for the first time in Triangle AIA’s Barkitecture event. Our Barky Bunch project was challenging and fun to create, and we were so excited to be awarded the Craziest Cat award for “the most unique design that challenges the idea of what pet architecture is in new and innovative ways as chosen by our panel of judges.”
Inspired by the idea of using an old TV that had been stored in a pack house for years, we decided to create a retro theme to compliment the TV. Since a focus market of R/DA is affordable housing for students, families and seniors, we came up with the “Brady Bunch” theme. This, to us, seemed to bring together our firm’s work with our desire to reuse and repurpose as many materials as possible for the build.
Thus the BARKY BUNCH was born – a multi-family, multi-generational pet condo! The retro TV has been transformed into a comfy and cozy place for dogs, cats, birds, hampsters, turtles or other favorite pets to live in harmony (think blended family). Features include a pet bed within the condo with a ramp for an elder fur baby. Open stairs lead up to a cat tunnel where warm sunrays beam down thru the skylight. A bird perch and nesting area at the other end give your feathered friend a safe space. A hamster wheel can be easily added, as well as an aquarium or fish bowl for more family fun.
Elements from the Brady Bunch house were incorporated, such as the wood paneling used for the inside back of the condo. Color acrylic in a grid pattern was used on one end to also mimic the original interior, opposite the open carpeted stairs. A brick tiled porch and ramp were added to ease access for older pups or kitties. Environmentally friendly products (varnish stripper, paint and finishing oils) were used with 90% of the materials being donated or repurposed.
In addition to receiving the Craziest Cat award, we were overwhelmed with the responses from everyone at the event. The nostalgic connection to the Brady Bunch and appreciation for our reuse design was very much felt. The day was capped off by the winning bid or purchase by a foster mom. Her kitties will love playing and snoozing in their own very unique Barky Bunch condo.
Very proud of our R/DA Team!
Our own Barky Bunch:
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Professional photo credits to: Rose+Anchor
