Hamster Haus

The project’s objective was to work with the design principles and objectives of 3D design and create a to-scale structure to meet the needs or specific need of a particular kind of animal. There are many considerations such as, materials, sustainability, methods of attachment, fabrication method, consideration of scale, safety and portability.

My choice of creature was the hamster because of my curiosity with them as a child and never having the chance to fully understand them and their needs. After extensive research into the physical characteristics, needs and behaviours of Syrian hamsters specifically, I gained some inspiration from some of my findings that would drive this project. My objective was to build a multifunctional and adaptable structure that would encourage rest, play and breaks up the monotonous cage environment. The structure would also strive to be easily collapsible, durable yet safe, space saving and cost-effective.

Method of attachment: interlocking tabs will allow for easy assembly, disassembly and the ability for the structure to be flatpacked which will help save space and reduce packaging.

Fabrication method: laser cutting the pieces of the structure will produce the most accurate measurements creating tight fitting interlocking tabs. Laser cutting is also cost effective and time-saving.

Material: birch plywood was chosen for its smooth and durable surface, strength and easy to handle nature. The wood will be thin enough for the interlocking tabs and will allow for easy fabrication in the laser cutter.

The final prototype made from thin cardboard is intended to be made from laser cut birch plywood when manufactured. The multifunctional structure adapts to the needs of a hamster by transforming into different structures that encourage both play and rest. The structure is easily assembled and parts can be taken off and reattached to create a whole new structure that helps break up the monotonous hamster cage environment.