Description

This bike ring concept was designed for the Parkdale BIA in Toronto as part of an initiative to enhance urban design and revitalize the streetscape. The prototype is constructed entirely from Baltic Birch plywood, but was spray-painted to emulate the appearance of COR-TEN steel, in accordance with the material requirements set by the BIA.

Project Timeframe: 3 weeks

Material: ½ Baltic Birch (made to mimic aged COR-TEN steel)

Scale: 1:1

The fabrication of this bike ring concept followed a structured design process, beginning with initial sketches to explore form and contextual integration within the Parkdale BIA. These early drawings informed the creation of 3D models, providing a tangible sense of the concept’s real-world presence.

Following the ideation phase, Baltic Birch plywood was selected as the primary material. The design was then transferred directly onto the wood surface, initiating the fabrication process. A jigsaw was used to cut the desired shape from two separate plywood sheets, which were later adhered together to form the final profile.

Surface imperfections, including dents and abrasions, were carefully sanded to ensure a clean finish. The assembled piece was then primed with spray paint and treated to simulate the appearance of weathered COR-TEN steel, aligning with the material language of urban infrastructure.