The Oribel Magnetic Marble Run was developed as a modular play system that reimagines how STEM learning can extend beyond traditional play surfaces.

The project explores how everyday environments can be transformed into active play surfaces, enabling more flexible, exploratory, and spatially aware forms of play.

Through iterative prototyping and testing, the system was developed to extend marble run construction beyond traditional horizontal setups, allowing play to take place on vertical and unconventional surfaces.

Learning Through Modular Interaction

‍Each component within the system introduces a distinct mechanical or physical principle, allowing children to engage intuitively with concepts such as gravity, momentum, sequencing, and cause-and-effect.

By combining and rearranging modules, children are encouraged to test ideas, observe outcomes, and refine their builds through continuous iteration.

Designing for Spatial Play

‍A key consideration throughout the design process was how to expand play beyond the limitations of the floor.

A magnetic attachment system was introduced to allow components to be placed on walls, doors, fridges, and whiteboards, transforming familiar household surfaces into interactive building spaces.

The resulting system creates an open-ended play environment where learning emerges through making and experimentation, turning everyday surfaces into dynamic platforms for STEM exploration.

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