Models, Log-Cabin Connector, Splitter, Miter Joint,

2016

In 1987, inspired by an “inflatables” project for the unemployed in London, the carpenter and social worker Emilio Blasio set up his own workshop in the Wollishofen district of Zurich. Called “Atelier Blasio,” it offered varied work and a daily structure for young people in need of extra support. It spanned the entire process, from design and production to rental and set-up of the inflatable play objects.
PVC-coated fabric tarpaulins were heat-sealed with hot air using simple tools. The modular system developed by Blasio employed three basic connections—the log cabin connector, the splitter, and the miter joint. Together with clearly defined work steps, these connections offered scope for project participants to implement ideas independently. Over a period of thirty years, Atelier Blasio developed more than 200 shapes and created over 1,200 play objects. Production was discontinued in 2016 and TIT-PIT GmbH took charge of the rental and storage of the play objects. The City of Zurich now runs the play events in outdoor pools.  (Sabina Tenti)