Cultural Elements: Breathing New Life into Playground Design

When thinking of playground design, classic play elements like swings, slides, and climbing towers might pop into your mind first. Today, playground design has progressed from just a place for fun. It’s become a powerful tool for learning and community enrichment. Adding cultural and wildlife features to your space can broaden that perspective, and we will cover that in this article.

Harnessing Play Value: A Game Changer in Your Playground Design

Play value is all about how much a play environment or equipment can captivate children and keep them returning for more. When you’re thinking about your playground design, play value should be at the forefront. It’s not about piling on static, one-dimensional play equipment anymore. It’s about adding features that fire up creativity and spark imagination and critical thinking. High play value? It’s like a magnet. It pulls kids in, keeps them engaged, and leaves them wanting more.

3D MODEL, playground equipment, bird, kereru
Kererū - Native bird species to New Zealand

Rooting for Culture and Wildlife: Your Playground as a Learning Hub

Why not weave culture and wildlife into your playground design? When you do, your playground stops being just a play area. It morphs into a vibrant centre for cultural and ecological learning. Think of it as a fun and subtle way for kids to connect with their cultural roots and develop a sense of respect for wildlife.

There are many ways to integrate those features into your playground design. One of them is folklore. Adding a boat or a river to spark imagination and link it to the local history or tales. Wildlife can be part of the design with surfacing, or playground equipment designed with national animals, all of them playable, to add value for the kids and community.

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Beyond Fun

Rolling cultural and wildlife elements into your playground design is a win-win. Besides the fun, think of the perks it offers the kids. They also soak up social and cognitive skills as they interact with these elements. The playground becomes a place where play and learning go hand in hand. And in the process, they naturally develop a sense of community and environmental stewardship.

Several studies have shown that adding cultural and wildlife features can increase the play value of your playground. Consequently, the users will learn and engage more, being part of the story the playground tells.

Aerial view of playground with blue, green and a river on the side

The Social Impact of this approach

Now, let’s talk about the bigger picture. A thoughtfully designed playground doesn’t just benefit the kids. It serves as a vibrant hub for the entire community. It’s a place where families can bond and where community events can come alive. And with cultural and wildlife elements in place, your playground becomes a space that fosters community togetherness and shared appreciation for local heritage and nature.

Series: Play surface design comparison

Choosing the perfect surface is crucial in playground design, blending aesthetics, safety, and accessibility. From woodchips and interlocking PVC tiles to artificial turf and wet-pour rubber, this guide will help you navigate these options for your playground project.

Woodchips: Embrace the Natural Look

Interlocking PVC tiles are a fantastic playground design option for those looking for a low-maintenance surface. The cushioned shock pad beneath the tiles offers a safe, comfortable, and smooth surface, making it highly accessible. However, the tiles may not last as long as other options due to possible separation at the joints over time, posing a tripping hazard. Aesthetic versatility is also somewhat limited. Additionally, as the tiles are made of plastic, they can become uncomfortably hot in the sun, making shade a necessity.

Inclusive Playground Design: An Adventure in Inclusion and Fun for All

Interlocking PVC Tiles: Low Maintenance, High Convenience

Interlocking PVC tiles are a fantastic playground design option for those looking for a low-maintenance surface. The cushioned shock pad beneath the tiles offers a safe, comfortable, and smooth surface, making it highly accessible. However, the tiles may not last as long as other options due to possible separation at the joints over time, posing a tripping hazard.

Aesthetic versatility is also somewhat limited. Additionally, as the tiles are made of plastic, they can become uncomfortably hot in the sun, creating shade a necessity.

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Artificial Turf: Greenery Without the Mess

Artificial turf is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a surface that closely mimics natural grass. The minimal maintenance and wheelchair-friendly surface give the playground a vibrant pop of colour.

However, like PVC tiles, artificial turf may start coming apart at the joints, especially in areas of heavy usage. Furthermore, this surface also gets significantly hot in direct sunlight, so make sure to consider shading when utilising this play surface.

Wet Pour Rubber: Creative Freedom with Durable Comfort

Wet pour rubber is an excellent playground surface with the highest design freedom. It’s a favourite among playground designers, offering a range of colours, shapes, and unique designs. This hardwearing surface requires very little maintenance and provides a smooth, wheelchair-accessible playground design. However, like the other surfaces, wet pour rubber can become hot under the sun.

The initial installation cost is also higher, but considering its durability and low upkeep cost, it is cost-effective in the long run.

Each playground surface option has its own pros and cons. Make sure to consider your playground design, maintenance capacity, budget, and the local climate before making your decision. You can see more on our playground surfacing page. And if you have any questions, reach out to our team.

Series: Wet pour rubber surfacing maintenance

When planning your ideal playground, you need to make choices that ensure safety and durability. One popular choice is the wet pour rubber surfacing, a mixture of rubber granules and a binder, which promises not only durability but also long-lasting service.

The Durability of Poured Rubber Surfaces

In general, wet pour rubber surfacing generally last between 10 and 15 years. However, the longevity of your playground surface depends greatly on the quality of installation and ongoing maintenance. Regular upkeep, such as filling low areas and debris removal, plays a significant role in extending your playground surface’s life.

How Sunlight Stabilizers and Granule Choices Impact Longevity

Manufacturing practices can further enhance the lifespan of your playground surface. Adding a stabilizer during production can help reduce the impact of harmful sunlight effects. Moreover, the choice of rubber granule significantly affects your surface’s longevity. Products like Roselle, used in our pour-in-place surfacing, promise a far more durable surface than their EPDM rubber granule counterparts.

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The Influence of Resin Binders on Surface

Your choice of resin binder can dramatically impact the lifespan of your playground surface. Aliphatic binders outperform aromatic binders in both aesthetics and durability, promising a playground surface that looks better and lasts longer.

Why Poured Rubber Surfacing is a Great Choice

In conclusion, wet pour rubber surfacing stands out as a durable, long-lasting option for playgrounds. With careful installation, regular maintenance, and well-informed material choices, your poured rubber playground surface can serve your community for many enjoyable years to come.

Series: 5 Questions for Choosing the Right Playground Surface

When it comes to the safety of a playground, the equipment is only half the story. An often overlooked but crucial aspect of playground safety is the surface underneath. A well-selected playground surface can play a pivotal role in preventing injuries and ensuring a safe, fun experience for all children. In this guide, we aim to equip you with the key information needed to decide about playground surfaces.

1. What safety standards does the surface meet?

The first question you should ask when buying a playground surface is – What safety standards does it meet? Remember, the surface should be capable of absorbing the impact of a fall, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

Look for surfaces that have undergone rigorous testing and meet the standards. This gives you the assurance that the surface is not just compliant but also well-suited for playground usage.

2. How slip resistant is it?

Next, consider the slip resistance of the surface. In the hustle and bustle of a playground, the last thing you want is for children to be slipping and sliding around. Your playground should offer a steady, slip-resistant surface, even when damp.

Surfaces with high traction, like wet-poured rubber, prevent slips and falls. These surfaces maintain their grip, even in wet conditions, making them a safe choice.

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3. How easy is it to maintain?

An often overlooked factor when selecting a playground surface is its ease of maintenance. The surface should be simple to clean and not require frequent replacement or expensive repairs.

Look for surfaces that are easy to maintain. A surface that is low maintenance ensures it stays in top condition for children to enjoy.

4. Is it accessible to children of all abilities?

Playgrounds should be spaces where all children can engage and enjoy. This makes it essential to consider the accessibility of the playground surface.

Choose surfaces that cater to children of all abilities, including those with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. Remember, accessibility is not just about wheelchairs. A truly inclusive playground caters to the diverse needs of all its little users.

5. What is it made of?

Playground surface with different material, some pillars in gray.

Lastly, ask yourself – What is the surface made of? The ideal playground surface is sustainable and eco-friendly.

Seek out surfaces made from recycled materials or those that can be recycled once they’ve outlived their use. Long-lasting products that can be recycled at the end of their life cycle are preferable.

In conclusion, choosing the right playground surface may seem daunting, but by asking these critical questions and doing some research, you can make a well-informed decision. A playground’s safety, joy, and inclusivity largely depend on the surface beneath the children’s feet.

Series: Making playground surface costs more affordable

Playground with a boat, vegetation rubber and bark surface

Designing an inspiring playground involves much more than simply providing a space for fun. It requires careful attention to safety, affordability, and the age of the users for the design. In this article, we will cover how to make a beautiful playground while keeping the surface costs within budget.

Choose the surface that suits your play purpose

The journey to an affordable playground often starts with choosing a cost-effective surface. For instance, woodchip surfacing is popular due to its initial price, but it comes with regular upkeep. However, if you desire the benefits of wet-pour rubber – with its sleek modern look and superior safety features – they cost more upfront but last longer, requiring minimal maintenance. There are ways to incorporate this into your playground without breaking the bank.

Blending Surfacing Materials

A clever approach to achieving an attractive, modern playground while keeping costs manageable is blending different types of surfaces. This strategy involves harmonising wet-pour rubber with more cost-effective materials such as artificial turf or woodchips. Incorporating it into your playground design can create a unique feel to it.

Blending allows you to balance costs, introduce varying textures into the playground, and offer a canvas for creative design. Using wet-pour rubber in high-traffic and fall-risk areas creates safe and visually striking spaces. For other less critical areas, cost-efficient alternatives like bark or artificial turf can be utilised, balancing cost and aesthetic appeal.

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Equipment choice

Another factor that can significantly influence your playground’s cost and safety is the play equipment’s height. Reducing equipment height not only saves on the cost of surfacing material required but also increases safety.

The takeaway

Creating a cost-effective, safe, and delightful playground revolves around careful planning and smart surface selection. The key is to prioritise safety and creatively mix surfacing materials for aesthetic appeal and design, keeping in mind the needs of all age groups. A well-designed playground, therefore, is not just a space for play but a carefully crafted environment that encourages exploration and fosters growth while ensuring the safety and affordability of the area.

Series: Playground surface comparison Wet Pour Rubber v. Wood Chips

Whether you are considering wood chips or wet pour rubber for your playground and are still determining the best option, well, you came to the right place, as we will explain in this article which is the best option for your play space.

The best surface depends on your specific requirements. Both wood chips and wet-pour rubber have unique benefits and drawbacks. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compared each based on eight key factors: safety, aesthetic appeal, maintenance, durability, designability, accessibility, surface temperature, and initial cost.

Safety

Safety always comes first in playground design. Wet pour rubber takes the lead here as it stays in place, eliminating the risk of thin spots. Wood chips, however, can disperse over time, leading to unsafe areas if not regularly maintained.

Aesthetic

The beauty of a playground surface is subjective. Wood chips offer a natural look, whereas wet pour rubber allows many colours for a vibrant space. If you’re seeking a natural aesthetic with the robustness of rubber, consider mixing both in your playground design.

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Maintenance

Wet-pour rubber surfaces win in maintenance for their seamless design that merely requires occasional cleaning. Wood chips, conversely, need weekly upkeep to maintain their distribution and safety.

Durability

When it comes to longevity, wet-pour rubber outperforms wood chips. Our top-quality wet pour rubber surface, Pour’n’Play, made with Rosehill TPV rubber granules, can last up to 20 years.

Designability

Wet pour rubber, beloved by playground designers, offers the greatest design flexibility. You can create custom shapes and complex designs easily during installation.

Accessibility

If inclusivity is your priority, wet-pour rubber is the go-to surface. Its smooth, seamless nature allows for easy movement, unlike wood chip surfacing, for users of all abilities.

Check out our award-winner inclusive playground: Lorna Irene

Surface Temperature

Wood chip surfacing performs better in maintaining a lower surface temperature, even under hot sunlight. We recommend considering shade options for wet pour rubber in sunny areas.

Inclusive Playground Design: An Adventure in Inclusion and Fun for All

Child jumping on an inclusive ground trampoline in a playground

Imagine a playground where joy, exploration, and fun are the norm for everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive abilities. That’s what inclusive playground design is all about, and we want to share with you the magic behind its philosophy. 

In this article, you will be able to understand where playground design is moving to and how thoughtful design can create a great social impact for all communities.

What is Inclusive and Accessible design?

Accessible playground design provides physical accessibility to children with disabilities. It includes elements such as ramps for wheelchair access, surfaces to make it easier to move around, and specialised equipment designed for children with specific disabilities. 

While it ensures access, accessible design can restrict a play experience, with specialised equipment often unsuitable for children without disabilities.

On the other hand, inclusive playground design incorporates accessibility but goes a step further. As the name says, it creates inclusive play experiences for children of all abilities. Inclusive equipment like universally designed swings or see-saws can be used by all children, breaking down barriers and promoting social benefits. 

The movement towards more inclusive playgrounds emphasises community integration, equal play opportunities, and shared enjoyment for children of varying abilities.

Does inclusive design mean less fun?

Here is where the fun starts! Inclusive design enhances the fun of playgrounds for all users. The premise of inclusive design is not just to provide accessibility but to ensure that playgrounds are exciting, stimulating, and equally inviting to all children, regardless of their abilities. 

Inclusive playground design does not merely check off the accessibility requirements but thoughtfully integrates features everyone can enjoy.

Inclusive design is crucial in supporting all children’s social development. 

It encourages interaction and shared play experiences between children of varied abilities, fostering understanding, empathy, and a sense of community while promoting valuable social skills and inclusion.

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How does it challenge all kids?

A well-designed inclusive playground offers play options that cater for a wide spectrum of comfort levels. From low-risk activities like playing on ground spinners to higher-risk opportunities like climbing and swinging equipment, children can choose how to challenge themselves.

It transcends conventional playground design by eliminating physical and social barriers to play, making these spaces enjoyable and beneficial for all users. 

Integrating diverse physical, sensory, and cognitive needs into the design process ensures that all children can participate fully, equitably, and actively in play activities.

Here are a few points for you to keep in mind when thinking of inclusive playground design:

 

  1. Accessible Surfacing: Choose surfacing materials that are firm, stable, and slip-resistant, like rubber or artificial turf. These will allow wheelchairs, strollers or with impaired mobility to move freely.
  2. Ramps and Transfer Stations: Ensure your play structures have ramps for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility issues. Transfer stations, platforms where a child can move from a wheelchair onto a play structure, should be present.
  3. Variety of Play Equipment: A diverse range of play equipment caters to children of different ages, abilities, and interests. This could include traditional equipment, such as swings and slides, alongside sensory play equipment, like musical instruments or textured panels. Equipment such as low-height basket swings, ground trampolines, and ground spinners are some that are inclusive for all.
  4. Sensory-Stimulating Activities: Incorporate elements that engage all senses, such as tactile surfaces, sound-producing equipment, visually attractive colours and patterns, and even scented plants in landscaping.
  5. Quiet Spaces: Create peaceful, shaded areas for rest and less intense activities for children with sensory sensitivities or those who need a break from play.
  6. Inclusive Seating: Ensure the seating accommodates different ages and abilities, including wheelchair users. Consider benches with back and arm supports for parents or individuals with disabilities.
  7. Signage and Wayfinding: Use clear, easy-to-read signs to help all users navigate the playground. Tactile and braille signs can also be included for visually impaired users.
  8. Safety Measures: Make sure the design adheres to safety guidelines to minimise the risk of injury. Elements such as handrails, protective barriers, and soft-landing surfaces are crucial.
  9. Inclusive Design Principles: These principles should guide the planning process. This means ensuring the playground is equitable, flexible in use, simple and intuitive to navigate, perceptible (communicates necessary information effectively), tolerant of error (minimises hazards), and requires low physical effort.
  10. Social Spaces: Build areas encouraging cooperative play and spaces where families, friends, and caregivers can gather. This fosters interaction and a sense of community.

What are the main benefits of inclusive playground design?

Inclusive playground design significantly enhances children’s physical health, cognitive growth, social skills, and emotional well-being. Physically, they allow all children to engage in activities that improve gross and fine motor skills and promote general fitness. 

Cognitively, the diverse environments and activities offered stimulate children’s problem-solving skills, imagination, and learning. 

Socially inclusive playgrounds provide a platform for children of all abilities and backgrounds to play together, fostering empathy, collaboration, and understanding. 

Emotionally, they boost children’s self-confidence and self-esteem and reduce anxiety by allowing them to participate alongside their peers.

  1. Physical Benefits: These playgrounds enable all children to engage in physical play, helping to foster gross and fine motor skills, coordination, and general fitness.
  2. Cognitive Benefits: The varied environments and activities stimulate cognitive development, promoting problem-solving, imagination, and exploratory learning.
  3. Social Benefits: By facilitating play among children with diverse abilities and backgrounds, inclusive playgrounds cultivate empathy, collaboration, and mutual understanding.
  4. Emotional Benefits: Inclusive playgrounds encourage children with different abilities to participate with their peers, boosting self-confidence and self-esteem and reducing anxiety.

Is it more expensive to build an inclusive playground?

Building an inclusive playground does not necessarily imply a higher cost. The key lies in thoughtful planning from the project’s get-go. 

While initial planning may require more consideration, the long-term benefits of fostering inclusivity, promoting social development, and creating a welcoming space for all families outweigh these efforts. 

Thus, the perspective on cost becomes broader, recognising inclusivity’s extensive and lasting benefits.

Case Study

The Creo team worked with the Kapiti district council and the local community to design an engaging environment for kids of all abilities, where integrating all kids is an awesome value for society.

Click here to see more about Lorna Irene Playground Case Study

What’s the future of playground design?

Inclusive playground design isn’t just a trend—it’s a forward-thinking approach that signifies the future of play. 

These playgrounds are not merely about promoting play; they represent a commitment to fostering understanding, empathy, and inclusivity.

This philosophy is already shaping changes in the future. The next phase of inclusive design involves creating a universally accessible playground. 

This means that the playground is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their abilities, and all equipment and spaces are inclusive.