The skateboard locker concept was developed for a class project that required us to examine and re-design a doorway/transition experience. Our initial observations and brainstorming helped us identify “transition smoothing” as a theme for our project.

Our next step was to find a location that would benefit from some form of “transition smoothing”. The main entrance to Green Library on Stanford campus proved to be an ideal location. Upon further observations and interviews with staff, students, and facilities management, we identified skateboard storage a an opportunity area.

Skateboards can currently be checked behind the security desk located at the library’s entrance, however this has many problems. The skateboards clutters the space behind the desk (which is both an inconvenience and a safety hazard), the “check-in/out” transaction slows down traffic flow moving in and out of the buidling, and the security of one’s skateboard is not guaranteed as security does not take responsibility for stolen boards.

After numerous prototypes and consultation with facilties management, we developed a working prototype of a skateboard locker which was temporarily installed and tested in the library entrance. The concept was very well received and we are currently working on designs for a permanent locker facility that will be completed in the summer of 2008.