Adventures With: Built for Play, Designed for Tomorrow

Adventures With is a sustainable toy packaging concept designed in collaboration with Grace Lee that reimagines packaging as an extension of play rather than a disposable container. Inspired by the interactive packaging experiences we grew up with, the project explores how children’s packaging can create lasting engagement while encouraging environmental awareness from an early age. In response to growing concerns around waste and overconsumption, the design focuses on extending the life cycle of packaging through reuse, interaction, and material conscious production.

Created for a children’s doll inspired by the legendary Irish pirate Grace O’Malley, the packaging transforms into a playable pirate ship that children can assemble themselves. Known as one of the few historically documented female pirates, Grace O’Malley became a symbol of independence, adventure, and resilience, making her story an ideal foundation for a toy centered around imagination and exploration. The packaging structure was intentionally designed to function as both container and toy, creating an experience that remains engaging long after the product has been opened.

The project combines material research with playful storytelling to create a packaging solution that is entirely recyclable and thoughtfully produced. Recycled paper printed with non UV inks forms the primary structure, while natural jute ties secure the doll and interactive components while doubling as functional sail rigging for the ship. Integrated recycling instructions make sustainability approachable and easy to understand for both children and caretakers. By encouraging children to reuse and interact with the packaging rather than discard it, Adventures With presents an optimistic vision for a more sustainable future in toy and packaging design.