Hamilton High School Architecture and Construction II students built two playhouses for the Metropolitan Builders Association (MBA) that will be displayed and raffled off during the Jan. 12-14 Home Building & Remodeling Show at the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center. Proceeds will go to the Home Building Trades Foundation or other charitable organizations as determined by MBA.
“The students gained valuable real world experience by building a structure within given parameters, budget and timeline. The students had to design their playhouses, then develop plans and timelines for building various parts of the structure.” commented Hamilton High School Technology & Applied Engineering Teacher Carl Grunewald.
Students were divided into two teams and started by designing the playhouses using architectural drafting software. They built the bases, framed and constructed the walls and roofed them. The finished playhouses were then painted by students from the National Art Honor Society, who volunteered their time.
Senior Brian Kabara reflected on the project stating, “Things I learned from being a team captain of my group is the ability to manage time and tasks along with leading a team. My group showed amazing teamwork and comradery. Everyone got together well and it pushed us to work because we wanted to get the project done before the deadline.”
“Throughout the construction process of the playhouses I learned that there is a lot more you have to take into consideration than you may ever expect,” said senior Ryan Paulie. “I also discovered how many different tools, materials, measurements and planning truly goes into the construction of a house.”
Initial supplies were donated by Zuern Building Products, paint was donated by Sherwin Williams in Menomonee Falls and MBA donated money for the remaining supplies.