Children and their families are at the heart of the Imagination Lab. Here they will be able to discover new ideas, invent new products and experiment with creative and technical tools they may not otherwise have access to, including coding, art and textiles, 3D design, animation, augmented reality and robotics. There will also be a dedicated area for under 5s to explore their imagination through a range of sensory spaces, storytelling and character creation. Activities span the arts and STEM and will give children the freedom to explore their imaginations without being pushed towards predetermined outcomes. In order to deliver a hands-on, experiential and innovative approach, we will offer access to the most cutting edge technology, such as virtual reality and 3D printing. The Imagination Lab is located in a formerly disused warehouse in Lambeth. It will provide a much-needed resource for London and the local community when we launch in January 2017.

What we'll deliver:

• Fit out the Imagination Lab with bespoke furniture and equipment.
• Invite all backers to a launch event at the Imagination Lab.
• Transform the space into an inviting and inspiring place for all ages and abilities.
• Create a new, much-needed resource for the local community and London.
• Officially launch the newly transformed Imagination Lab in January 2017.

Why it's a great idea:

Imagination is the cornerstone of creativity, problem solving and innovation but it is not being given the priority it deserves. We need to prioritise children’s imaginations and provide space and opportunities for their ideas and creativity to thrive so that they can grow up to become creators, not just consumers, of things. Through the Imagination Lab we will be equipping young people for the future. Not only by helping them to develop new skills, such as coding, but also with the development of softer skills such as independent thinking, problem solving and confidence. We need the help of the Spacehive community to raise the funds needed for the practical fit out of the Imagination Lab. This will be the first step towards transforming it into the inspiring space that we want it to be. We know that we can deliver a high-quality and unique programme of activity for young people and their families. Your support will help to ensure that the quality of the space matches this.

Steps to get it done:

• Design a creative layout for the Imagination Lab.
• Open the doors to the public in January 2017.
• Set up the Imagination Lab and dress the space ready to launch.
• Purchase the furniture and equipment for the space.

The Imagination Lab will offer 200 days of activity throughout the year aiming to reach 20,000 children, teachers and families through a range of workshops and events. Importantly all of our activities are inclusive. Our content has been co-created with children with special educational needs to ensure it is suitable and accessible for all. The Imagination Lab is in the London borough of Lambeth, which is currently lacking in dedicated spaces for children and young people. Community services across the borough are incredibly limited so the Imagination Lab will become a much needed community resource, providing a unique opportunity for the young people of Lambeth most in need of accessing specialised learning experiences. We will work closely with local schools, alongside the council, to ensure that we are easily accessible all families in the borough. We want all local residents to see the Imagination Lab as an inclusive space that they can enjoy repeatedly.