Playgrounds You Need to Visit This Summer

Wet pour rubber surface

Summertime is the best time to visit parks, beaches, and playgrounds. As playground builders, we have worked on many projects that are perfect spots for a hot summer day packed with fun.

Let’s explore some of the playgrounds you should visit this summer!

Shorland Park – Wellington

Located in Island Bay, Shorland Park is the perfect spot for a hot summer day. Bring the kids, don’t forget your beach gear, and have fun! A little about this project: Shorland Park in Wellington underwent a significant upgrade, receiving much community interest.

Creo’s design retained beloved elements like the original slide, which was integrated into a new tower structure, and the refurbished snail structure.

New play features like fresh swings and a flying fox were added. The playground, located by the waterfront, features a subtle beach theme with light blues, nautical elements, and natural turf. It includes boat-like structures for different age groups, celebrating the blend of old and new elements.

Caroline Bay Playground – Timaru

Considered the largest playground in the southern hemisphere, Caroline Bay Playground caters to children of all ages. This space will be a hit at historic Caroline Bay this summer. If you are driving past Timaru or living in the area, this one is a must-visit with the children!

A bit about the playground: This community-driven project to revitalise Caroline Bay Playground focuses on inclusivity and local heritage, reflecting the area’s rich history from its geological beginnings to Maori and European influences. Key features include bespoke playground equipment like a lighthouse and shipwreck, designed to narrate the region’s story.

Scarborough Park – Christchurch

Stroll across the shore and stop by Scarborough Park when visiting Sumner in Christchurch. It’s an excellent spot for the family, where you can stop by for lunch or grab a coffee from the shops next to the park. A bit about the playground: Scarborough Park in Sumner, Christchurch, features a marine-themed playground.

The design by Jennifer Dray, Christchurch City Council Landscape Architect, includes blue water, sandy yellows, and red starfish motifs.

The playground surfacing, installed by the Creo South Island team, was completed on time and has become popular with local families and visitors. The Christchurch City Council involved the local community in the planning, resulting in a well-received family-friendly space.

Scarborough Park, Christchurch

Wanaka Rotary Park – Wanaka

Are you going to the countryside? Wanaka is a favourite spot on the South Island for both winter and summer. Water activities are the best, and this playground is a spot for a relaxing afternoon just a second away from the lake.

A bit about the playground: In 2021, Wanaka’s Rotary Park Playground underwent an upgrade in collaboration with the Queenstown Lakes District Council and Creo.

The design utilized blues, greens, and greys to complement thepark’ss surroundings. The playground featuresPour’n’Playy surfacing, creating a visually appealing and safe play environment. It includes rubber rocks and a variety of balls and steppers in various sizes, adding sensory dimensions and challenges for users of all ages and encouraging creative play.

Long-term Value of Quality Playgrounds

Lorna Irene Reserve Playground

When considering the budget for your playground project, you’ll probably consider the value of the space over time. In our experience, a quality playground should last up to 20-25 years. That is a lot of play!

In this article, we will point out the main reasons a quality playground design and build can make your playspace value last longer, making it a sound investment

Assessing Playground Costs

The cost of constructing a playground can vary significantly. Usually, a playground will range between $500-1100 per metre square. The main factors are access to the site, complexity of design, and choice of equipment and surfacing.

 While initial expenses are crucial, the value lies in long-term sustainability and reduced maintenance needs. Investing in quality materials and thoughtful design can lead to substantial savings over time, a crucial factor for community planners and councils to consider.

The Art of Playground Design: A Blend of Function and Aesthetics

Effective playground design combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. It’s about creating safe, inviting, and stimulating spaces for children of all abilities.

The design process should involve community input, ensuring that these spaces meet the unique needs and preferences of the local population.

This process is extremely important to add value to your space. This will certainly reduce the need for future updates, making your space more relevant to its location in the community.

Creo expert team of playground equipment that will last a long time.

Choosing the Right Playground Equipment: Durability and Inclusivity

Selecting the right equipment is pivotal. Durable materials suited to New Zealand’s diverse climates ensure longevity, while innovative and inclusive play options cater to various abilities and interests.

This approach enhances the playground’s appeal and ensures it serves a broader segment of the community.

Maximising Your Playground Budget

Budgeting for a playground is a strategic process. One effective approach is to phase the development, starting with essential elements and gradually adding more features. However, it is not the most common alternative; it can work sometimes.

Rolling out the project at once is cheaper, so you avoid costs such as travel and possible repairs due to use and having construction signs in your space.

Engaging the community in fundraising can also provide additional financial support, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the project. Another way of raising funds is contacting government grants and other institutions subsidising community or educational projects.

Custom equipment and surfacing in Whitikau Reserve Playground.

Conclusion

Investing in quality playgrounds goes beyond providing a space for play; it’s a critical factor in nurturing community development and well-being.

These playgrounds, designed with durability, inclusivity, and engagement in mind, become more than just physical structures.

 They evolve into vibrant centres where children learn, socialise, and grow. This approach to playground development reflects a commitment to the future, highlighting the importance of creating environments that support active learning and community interaction.

The Top Creo Projects of 2023

As 2023 ends, we look back and appreciate all our work this year. Thanks to all of our clients, our team and those who follow us to know more about playgrounds. Our team chose the top playgrounds of 2023 and why we love them.

It can be that they are inclusive, tell a story or that it is just a great project to develop.

Check them out below!

Elm Park - Auckland

Elm Park School - Auckland

Elm Park School’s playground in Auckland is an expansive space designed for unprescribed play, allowing children to challenge themselves and develop key skills freely. The open design fosters multipurpose learning and engagement.

Key Features:

  • Open Design: Encourages freedom and creativity.
  • Diverse Equipment: Catering to various interests and abilities.
  • Safety-Oriented: Ensures a secure play environment.

Why We Love It:

It’s a dynamic space where children’s imagination and physical abilities are nurtured. The playground’s diverse equipment and safe environment make it an ideal place for children to grow and learn.

St Patrick's Catholic School - Te Awamutu

St Patrick’s Catholic School’s playground offers a unique, natural play environment, inviting children to explore and connect with nature, enhancing their motor and cognitive skills.

Key Features:

  • Natural Play: Integrates sustainable, eco-friendly elements.
  • Sensory Experiences: Rich in textures and natural stimuli.

Why We Love It:

This playground stands out for its commitment to an eco-conscious, natural play setting, fostering a strong connection with the environment and promoting imaginative, physical play.

Whitikau Reserve Playground - Opotiki

Whitikau Reserve Playground - Opotiki

Whitikau Reserve playground in Opotiki is a custom-designed, inclusive playground that tells a story, connecting children with their local community and culture.

Key Features:

  • Custom Design: Reflects local cultural themes.
  • Inclusive Play: Welcomes children of all abilities.
  • Storytelling Elements: Engages children in the local narrative.

Why We Love It:

The unique design and storytelling aspect of this playground creates a space that not only provides fun but also instils a sense of local identity and community connection.

Caroline Bay Playground - Timaru

Caroline Bay Playground - Timaru

Caroline Bay playground in Timaru is a bespoke, inclusive playground born from a community vision, representing the local story and engaging all ages.

Key Features:

  • Inclusive Design: Accessible to all age groups.
  • Community Effort: A collaborative creation.
  • Bespoke Elements: Customized to reflect the community’s narrative.

Why We Love It:

This playground embodies the essence of community collaboration and inclusivity, offering a space that resonates with everyone in the town, making it a unique and cherished local landmark.

The Process of Collaborative Playground Design

Undertaking a playground project can seem daunting, but with a collaborative design approach, this complexity transforms into a seamless and rewarding journey.

This process not only ensures a personalised playspace but also evokes a sense of pride and ownership among those involved. In this article, we will share the collaborative journey you get when working with a full-service playground company.

The Full-Service Collaborative Approach

At Creo, our role is to guide you through every step of your project. We provide comprehensive support from the initial design ideas to the final installation. This approach ensures you’re an integral part of the process, transforming your vision into a tangible reality.

You will work closely with our designers, engineers and site teams to ensure you are well-informed and aware every step of the way.

Initial Consultation: Capturing Your Vision

Everything starts with a conversation. This initial consultation is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire project.

It’s about capturing what you want your playground to be. At this stage, we want to hear your vision and the primary needs for your space, such as the age you are catering for, the style, and how we can be a great fit for each other.

Creating Your Playground Wishlist

Once we understand your vision, we move on to the wishlist. This is where you can let your imagination run wild. What features do you see in your playground? A maze of tunnels, a towering climbing structure, or perhaps risky elements to create a bit of challenge for the users?

This wishlist becomes our guide, shaping the project to your desires. With experienced designers, we will challenge ourselves and create designs that are uniquely yours.

Budget Planning and Funding Assistance

A great playground needs a realistic budget. We collaborate with you to align your vision with financial feasibility. It is important to be aware of the real cost of the playground and keep it within budget, which will prevent any future frustration.

We also offer guidance in navigating the funding landscape, helping you explore various funding options from different institutions out there.

The Design Phase: Crafting Your Vision

Armed with your wishlist and budget, our design team starts crafting your vision into a design concept. This phase is highly collaborative. We present initial designs, gather your feedback, and make revisions. It’s a dynamic process where your input is vital in shaping the final design.

Equipment Manufacturing and Landscaping Preparations

Before the physical work begins, there’s a focus on manufacturing the playground equipment and preparing the landscaping.

This phase ensures that the materials and design elements are of the highest quality and tailored to your needs. In our workshop, we can craft unique pieces, from high towers to sensorial pathways, that fit any age group.

Construction Phase: Civil Construction and Playground Assembly

The construction phase is where plans and designs materialise. It includes civil construction work and the assembly of the playground equipment.

Our team, comprising experienced site managers and installers, ensures that every aspect of the playground reflects the agreed-upon design. They keep you informed, explaining each phase and how your vision is coming to life, not to mention good banter between the steps of the project. After all, we’re making a playground, so it should be fun.

Cutting the Ribbon

Finally, the moment everyone has been waiting for – the opening of the new playground. This is a time for celebration, a testament to the collaborative effort and shared vision. But our support doesn’t end here.

We continue to offer assistance with maintenance and advice on best practices to ensure the longevity and success of your playspace.

Creating a playground is much more than a construction project; it’s a journey of collaboration, creativity, and community engagement.

It’s about building a space that not only entertains but also connects and enriches the community. By engaging in a collaborative design process, you’re not just constructing a playground; you’re creating a vibrant, inclusive, and a landmark that will be fun for years to come.

 Ready to start your process with a team that will understand your needs and vision? Book an ideas session below or call our team on 0800 000 334 or send us an email to [email protected]

Bespoke Design in Playgrounds: Crafting Spaces with Purpose and Beauty

Playgrounds are more than just a place for children to have fun and let off some steam. They play a crucial role in child development, fostering creativity, imagination, and social skills.

The playground design is paramount in creating an environment that stimulates and engages children, allowing them to explore, learn, and grow.

In this article, we will explore the importance of bespoke designs and how they influence how we perceive play and playspaces.

The Importance of Play in Child Development

Play is an essential and natural part of childhood. It is through play that children develop physical, cognitive, and social skills. Playgrounds provide a space where children can engage in unstructured play, allowing them to use their imaginations, problem-solving abilities, and social interaction skills. Play also promotes physical exercise, helping children to develop coordination, balance, and strength.

Moreover, play has a significant impact on emotional and mental well-being. It provides an outlet for self-expression, allowing children to explore their emotions and experiment with different roles and scenarios.

Playgrounds are spaces where children can practice decision-making, adaptability, and resilience, preparing them for the challenges they will face in life.

Bespoke tower in Wellington Botanic Gardens
Wellington Botanic Garden, Design and Build of Creo.

Merging Beauty with Play

The core of a bespoke playground design lies in the harmony between visual charm and playful function. The design and manufacturing teams collaborate to select or craft equipment that echoes the unique theme and purpose of the playground.

It means tailoring colours, shapes, and materials to echo local culture or innovatively using standard play equipment to enrich the overall design. The outcome? A playground that delights the eyes and invites endless fun.

Bringing Dreams to Life

If you are thinking of starting a playground project, bespoke design opens a realm of possibilities. It’s about capturing the spirit of a community and moulding it into a tangible space.

We mean here that your project doesn’t need to be the largest or most complex to be bespoke. It needs to be unique to you and your space.

Whether for a school, a park, or an urban area, a bespoke playground reflects the community’s identity, dreams, and values.

This process combines creativity, thoughtful planning, and a deep understanding of how spaces shape human interactions.

The End User Experience: A World Beyond Play

A Landscape of Discovery

A bespoke playground is a rich environment of learning and adventure for children. Each element, from amazing installations to themed play zones, is a gateway to discovery, learning, and growth.

These playgrounds are designed for physical play and nurturing young minds and social skills, creating a seamless blend of fun and education.

A Gathering Place for All Ages

Bespoke playgrounds have a unique charm that reaches beyond children. They are crafted to be welcoming and engaging for everyone.

Artistic touches and thoughtful designs turn these playgrounds into community magnets, drawing in people of all ages.

They become places where grandparents are just as thrilled to visit as their grandchildren, drawn by both the joy of play and the beauty of the setting.

Becoming Community Icons

A well-crafted bespoke playground can evolve into a community icon. It’s a place rich with memories, buzzing with events, and brimming with communal bonds.

The aesthetic allure of these playgrounds makes them beloved landmarks, enhancing the charm and identity of neighbourhoods and cities.

Conclusion

Bespoke playground design is about creating spaces that resonate deeply with people. It’s an artful mix of aesthetics, functionality, and community essence.

These playgrounds are more than play areas; they are vibrant, dynamic havens that enrich communities, foster learning, and infuse beauty into daily life.

By embracing bespoke design, we’re constructing playgrounds and weaving enduring spaces that uplift, inspire, and unite.

The Benefits of Multigenerational Playgrounds: Creating Inclusive and Engaging Spaces

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of multigenerational playgrounds. These unique spaces are designed to unite people of all ages, fostering inclusivity, social connections, and a sense of community.

They offer a range of benefits, including promoting physical activity, improving cognitive development, enhancing emotional well-being, and much more. In this article, we will explore the various advantages of multigenerational playgrounds and delve into their design and features.

What are Multigenerational Playgrounds?

Multigenerational playgrounds are recreational spaces designed to accommodate individuals of all ages, from children and teenagers to adults and seniors.

Unlike traditional playgrounds primarily geared towards younger children, these spaces provide opportunities for people of different generations to interact and engage in play activities together.

Multigenerational playgrounds emerged as a response to the growing need for inclusive play spaces catering to the diverse needs and abilities of individuals across all age groups.

These playgrounds typically feature a variety of equipment and play structures suitable for people of different ages, allowing for intergenerational play and interaction.

Public playspaces are perfect for different generations to connect.

Promoting Physical Activity and Exercise

One of the critical advantages of multigenerational playgrounds is their ability to promote physical activity and exercise among individuals of all ages.

Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of various chronic conditions.

By providing age-appropriate equipment and play structures, these playgrounds encourage individuals to engage in active play, improving their strength, balance, coordination, and overall fitness.

Children can enjoy climbing structures, slides, swings, and interactive play panels, which help them develop gross motor skills and promote physical growth.

Teenagers and adults can participate in activities such as jogging tracks, sports courts, and fitness stations, allowing them to stay fit and active.

Seniors can benefit from low-impact exercises, such as walking paths with benches for resting, tai chi areas, and low-intensity resistance training equipment, supporting their mobility and overall well-being.

Fostering Social Connections and Relationships

Multigenerational playgrounds are important spaces for building and strengthening social connections and relationships across different age groups.

These spaces facilitate interaction, communication, and engagement between generations by bringing individuals together in a shared play environment.

Children can learn from older adults and develop social skills by playing and collaborating with peers and older individuals. Teenagers can engage in team sports and group activities, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendship.

Adults can connect with other parents, caregivers, or individuals with similar interests, sharing experiences and building support networks.

Seniors can combat social isolation, as they have opportunities to interact with younger generations, share wisdom, and feel a sense of belonging within the community.

Enhancing Cognitive Development

Multigenerational playgrounds offer a range of play elements and activities that stimulate cognitive development in individuals of all ages.

Through play, children can engage in problem-solving, creativity, and imagination, essential for their cognitive growth.

They can explore sensory play elements, puzzles, and educational games, enhancing their cognitive abilities and critical thinking skills.

Teenagers and adults can also benefit from cognitive stimulation through games that require strategy, concentration, and quick thinking.

Interactive play panels and brain teasers encourage mental agility and cognitive flexibility. Seniors can engage in memory games, puzzles, and activities that promote cognitive function, helping them maintain mental sharpness and cognition.

Improving Emotional Well-being

In addition to the physical and cognitive benefits, multigenerational playgrounds also positively impact emotional well-being.

Play, in its various forms, has been linked to improved mood, reduced stress, increased self-esteem, and enhanced overall well-being.

For children, play provides an outlet for self-expression, emotional regulation, and social and emotional skills development.

Teenagers can experience stress relief and emotional support through team sports and group activities.

Adults can find a sense of stress reduction and relaxation through playful exercises or leisurely interactions. Seniors can combat loneliness and depression by engaging in meaningful play experiences and social interactions.

Design and Features of Multigenerational Playgrounds

Multigenerational playgrounds are designed carefully considering individuals’ diverse needs and abilities across different age groups. Some key design elements and features include:

  • Inclusive and accessible: The playgrounds are designed for individuals of all abilities, ensuring everyone can participate and engage in play.
  • Variety of play equipment: The playgrounds offer diverse play structures and equipment catering to different age groups and abilities. This includes swings, climbing structures, sports courts, musical play elements, interactive panels, and more.
  • Seating and resting areas: The playgrounds provide seating and resting areas, such as benches, shade structures, and picnic tables, for individuals of all ages to take breaks or observe others playing.
  • Safety measures: Safety is a top priority in multigenerational playgrounds. The design incorporates appropriate surfacing, handrails, and clear signage to ensure a safe play environment for everyone.
  • Intergenerational spaces: The playgrounds are designed to encourage interaction and engagement between generations. This may include communal seating areas, picnic spots, or family-friendly zones.

Conclusion

Multigenerational playgrounds offer many benefits, creating inclusive and engaging spaces for individuals of all ages. By promoting physical activity, fostering social connections, enhancing cognitive development, and improving emotional well-being, these playgrounds contribute to communities’ overall health and well-being.

Their design and features prioritise inclusivity, accessibility, safety, and opportunities for intergenerational play.

As we continue to recognise the importance of intergenerational connections, developing multigenerational playgrounds is a significant step towards creating vibrant and cohesive communities.

Mahara Place

Mahara Place

See all projects

Mahara Place Play Ground

Client:
Kapiti District Council
Location:
Waikanae
Circa Budget:
$

The Mahara Place playground is in the heart of Waikanae, in the Kapiti District Council. Overdue for an upgrade, their existing space was old and dangerous for users.

They required a transformation to improve safety, but not only that, they wanted to make the new playground accessible for users of all abilities.

Understanding their needs and finding the best way to approach this small space to create a unique area, Creo worked with the Council to develop this new great playground.

The Collaborative Approach

Initial Engagement

The project began with a detailed brief from the council, emphasising the need for a safe, imaginative, and culturally relevant play area. Our team’s first step was to understand and explore this brief thoroughly.

Community and Artist Involvement

 Key to our approach was the collaboration with local stakeholders, including a Māori artist. This partnership was crucial in integrating local cultural elements into the playground’s design, ensuring the final product was unique and resonant with the community’s identity. Bringing names into the surface design, tying the local story with the land and sea, all aligned with local heritage.

Design Process

Concept Development

Our iterative design process involved multiple revisions to align with the council’s vision and the artist’s creative input. This involved incorporating themes such as water elements, native flora and fauna, and imaginative play features.

Final Design

The approved design was a great blend of safety, creativity, and cultural significance, tailored to cater to children under 5 to 10 years old and simultaneously accommodate multiple families.

Implementation and Features

Safety and Play Elements

The playground featured a ‘Pour n Play’ surface with artistic designs, varied play items like musical instruments, sensory spaces, a ground trampoline, and unstructured play elements.

Cultural and Natural Integration

 Reflecting local heritage, the design included Māori art, water themes representing the nearby Waikanae River, and representations of native trees and birds.

A pocket of relaxation

 The layout included seating, allowing parents to supervise their children comfortably. Creating a breathing space in the area.

Outcome and Impact

The upgraded Mahara Place playground has become a vibrant and safe recreational space in Waikanae’s urban landscape. It offers a unique blend of imaginative play, cultural education, and communal interaction, serving as the area’s ‘pocket of happiness’.

Community Benefits:

  • Enhanced Safety: A secure and stimulating environment for children.
  • Cultural Engagement: Promotes local heritage and environmental awareness.
  • Social Hub: Acts as a gathering spot, strengthening community bonds.

The Mahara Place project showcases our commitment to delivering playgrounds that are not just functional but are deeply embedded in the local community. We are creating spaces that locals can feel connected to.

Want to see more projects like this one?

Download our latest portfolio. Just fill the form and see how we design and build fun, inclusive and beautiful places for all.

We're here to help

If you’d like more information or to discuss a new project, get in touch today

Contact us

How Much Does A Playground Cost Per M2?

Building a playground is an exciting venture, whether it’s for a school, community centre, or public park. However, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: how much does it cost? Specifically, what are the costs per square metre for building a playground in 2023?

This article will guide you through the various aspects of playground construction costs, offering a clear picture of what to expect financially.

 

Play Video

Playground Construction Costs

Understanding the cost per square metre is crucial in planning and budgeting for a playground. In 2023, various factors influence these costs, and being aware of them helps in making informed decisions.

Some of the main factors are access to your site, the complexity of the design, and types of equipment are also a big influence on the costs. What we recommend is dividing your budget into 3 parts. 1/3 for surfacing, 1/3 for construction, and 1/3 for equipment.

Cost Range for an Inclusive Playground

An inclusive playground, designed to be accessible for children of all abilities, typically features quality poured rubber for safety surfacing.

The costs for such playgrounds range between $900 and $1400 per square metre. This range reflects not just the inclusivity aspects but also the quality of materials used.

Key Factors Influencing Playground Costs

Several key factors significantly impact the cost of building a playground. Understanding these will help in better budget management.

Equipment Height and Cost Correlation

The height of playground equipment directly affects the amount and type of safety surfacing needed, thereby influencing the overall cost. Higher equipment requires more extensive safety measures.

Safety Surfacing Types and Their Costs

Choosing between wood chips and poured rubber for safety surfacing affects both initial and long-term costs. While wood chips are cheaper initially, they may entail higher ongoing maintenance costs compared to poured rubber.

Site Condition and Access Considerations

The condition of the site and ease of access can significantly impact the total cost. Difficult access and extensive site preparation work increase the overall construction costs.

Comprehensive Cost Analysis

A detailed understanding of these costs is essential for anyone planning a playground build. It ensures that all factors are considered, from equipment to safety surfacing and site conditions.

Making Cost-Effective Decisions

Balancing quality and budget is key in playground construction. While cost is a major factor, it’s important not to compromise on safety and inclusivity.

Future Trends in Playground Construction

Staying informed about future trends and potential changes in costs can be beneficial for long-term planning and budgeting.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors that influence the cost of building a playground in 2023 is crucial for effective planning and budgeting. By considering the type of playground, safety surfacing, equipment height, and site conditions, you can make informed decisions that balance quality, safety, and cost.

More Resources:

  1. Inclusive playgrounds and what they mean.
  2. The benefits of a full-service playground company.
  3. Understanding playground compliance

Water Playgrounds – Summertime Fun for All

In the summer scorcher days, water playgrounds emerge as an oasis for children and families. These unique spaces provide relief from the heat and transform ordinary playgrounds into sought-after destinations.

This article dives into the essence of water playgrounds, their benefits, and how these spaces can be optimised for maximum enjoyment.

Water Playgrounds: Soaking Fun

Water playgrounds are innovative recreational areas that combine the thrill of playgrounds with the refreshing element of water. They are particularly appealing during summer, offering an escape from the heat and a fantastic opportunity for outdoor fun.

With features like splash pads, interactive fountains, and water play structures, these playgrounds are not just about cooling off but also about engaging in playful and stimulating activities.

Themed Water Play Features

Themes can significantly enhance the appeal of water playgrounds. Imagine an ocean-themed area with playful dolphins and gentle waves or a pirate ship where young adventurers navigate through water cannons and cascading waterfalls.

Each themed area can be a mini-adventure, sparking imagination and encouraging creative play.

Interactive Water Elements

Interactive elements such as fountains, nozzles, and water streams invite children to explore and manipulate their watery environment.

They can control water flow with blockades, taps, and water dams, learning basic physics principles while at play. This hands-on interaction is not only fun but educational.

Inclusive Design

Accessibility is a cornerstone of modern playground design. Water playgrounds should cater to children of all abilities, featuring wheelchair-accessible water tables and gentle water areas for those who might find intense water features overwhelming.

Safety surfacing and proper drainage are essential to ensure a safe and inclusive environment. Opt for wet-pour rubber or surfaces that are resistant to water and heat.

Water is a great way to activate sensory playgrounds

Water Recycling System

Sustainability is a key consideration in the design of water playgrounds. Filtration systems and efficient drainage ensure that these play areas are fun and environmentally responsible.

A well-designed water recycling system can significantly reduce water waste, making the playground a model of sustainable recreation.

Sensorial Benefits

Water play is an excellent medium for sensory development. Children can explore textures, temperatures, and the dynamics of water flow.

This kind of sensory play aids in cognitive development, fine motor skills, and understanding natural phenomena.

Summer Benefits

On hot summer days, water playgrounds are a haven for fun, relaxation, and cooling down. They provide a communal space where families can gather, children can socialise and play, and everyone can enjoy a respite from the heat.

Off-Season Alternatives

In cooler months, these playgrounds can transform to suit the season. Depending on the design, some water play areas can be converted into dry play spaces or even ice rinks, ensuring that the fun continues year-round.

Conclusion

Water playgrounds are more than just a way to beat the heat; they are vibrant, interactive, and inclusive spaces offering many benefits.

From fostering imaginative play to encouraging physical activity and environmental awareness, these playgrounds are an asset to any community.

Need some help designing your next summer project? Reach out to our team, and we will help you navigate the way to your next design. Call us on 0800 000 334 or email at [email protected]

Art And Play – Making Playgrounds Beautiful And Fun

Playgrounds are traditionally seen as areas with basic play equipment – poles, platforms, and slides. However, there’s a growing recognition that these spaces can be so much more.

They can be environments where both adults and children find joy and engagement, not just through physical play but also through the integration of art.

This fusion of art and play in playgrounds can transform them from standard play areas into unique, stimulating, and playful environments.

Caroline Bay Playground uses art to craete a beautiful and fun space!

The Importance of Beautiful Spaces

The design of communal spaces plays a crucial role in our social and communal lives. Beyond their functional purpose, these areas should be places where people genuinely enjoy spending time and feel a sense of peace and belonging.

The power of aesthetically pleasing spaces lies in their ability to evoke emotions and foster connections, something that sterile, purely functional spaces often fail to achieve.

In playgrounds, the integration of beauty and play is particularly important. These are not just areas for physical activity but spaces where fun, learning, and art can coexist, helping people of all ages engage with their surroundings meaningfully.

Why Fun Places are Essential

Research in children’s behavioural studies consistently highlights the link between fun and learning. Engaging in enjoyable activities is recognised as one of the most effective ways to stimulate young minds.

It encourages children to challenge themselves, enhancing their motor skills, creativity, and social interactions. However, the traditional design of playgrounds often focuses solely on children, leaving adults on the benches.

The challenge lies in creating playgrounds that are equally enjoyable for adults. This can be achieved by including multi-generational playground equipment or designing playgrounds as interactive art pieces that captivate and engage all ages.

Full Service Design and Build companies work with you from concept.
Bespoke designs can make your playground unique and playful.

The Synergy of Art and Play

The integration of art and play in playgrounds offers a multitude of benefits. From an aesthetic standpoint, it can significantly enhance the visual appeal of these spaces.

Art in playgrounds can also establish a cultural connection, particularly when bespoke, locally inspired designs are implemented.

Collaborating with local artists supports the local arts scene and ensures that the playground reflects the community’s identity and heritage. This approach transforms playgrounds into spaces celebrating local culture and history, going beyond their traditional role as play areas.

Artistic playgrounds can become storytelling spaces where narratives are brought to life in a way that is engaging and interactive. This sparks children’s imagination and provides an educational dimension, making these stories more relatable and impactful.

The Broader Impact of Artistic Playgrounds

While standard playgrounds with their typical equipment are found everywhere, those that incorporate thoughtful design and local cultural elements can have a greater impact.

These playgrounds can evolve into community landmarks – places not just for play but for learning, socialising, and cultural exchange. They become destinations that draw people together, fostering community and belonging.

This transformation shows the true potential of playgrounds when they are designed with intention and creativity. Spaces that integrate art become more than just physical spaces; they are social and cultural hubs, reflecting the community’s identity and fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

Inspired to see how art can transform your community’s playgrounds? At Creo, our team of experienced designers specialises in creating playgrounds that are not just places to play but spaces that inspire, educate, and bring communities together. To explore how we can bring this vision to life in your community, call us at 08000 000 334 or email [email protected].