THE LOAF
Barkman Design Competition 2016 - First Place
U of M Fall Term 2016
Group: Christopher Theide, Lee Christensen
Elevations portraying the scale of the project, as well as renderings of a 3D Model to better communicate the shape of the structure.
![RE[FUEL]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/234c5c_8d23e6981f8a49958eec6ab818ffafc0~mv2_d_5184_3456_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_653,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/234c5c_8d23e6981f8a49958eec6ab818ffafc0~mv2_d_5184_3456_s_4_2.jpg)
In conceptualizing a piece that could engage both skaters and pedestrians, the group began exploring a variety of creative art forms that would be considered skateable. The decision was made to pursue an oblong shape with horizontal cuts that would form ramps. Varying ramp heights add several degrees of difficulty to the piece, while the rounded surfaces along the object allows for pedestrian seating.
Steel coverings are built into the edges of the ramps that add variety to the types of tricks that skaters can attempt (such as grinding or stalls). The center ramp at its highest point has a small platform in which skateboarders can stop before skating down to the ground level. The form of the piece is to be wet-cast into a mold to ensure a rounded, smooth surface free of imperfections in the sitting areas.
Because the shape is unique in comparison to what may be found in typical urban situations, it could serve as an eye-catching addition to a public setting as a stand-alone form. Further, the varying degrees of elevation to the ramps make it a desirable addition to any skateboard scene. Be it a public space or a skateboard park, the addition of The Loaf adds variety, function, and unique aesthetic values to any space skaters may seek out.