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Inspired by the local history, natural systems, culture and industry of the area, this destination playground, situated on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain in south Louisiana, tells the story of the Parish (Louisiana's designation for a county) from its beginnings through the 21st century. The playground is located within St. Tammany Parish Recreation District #14's Coquille Park, near Madisonville and was named after Chief Tammand, the Indian chief that Parish was also named after.
The design, which interprets local landmarks in the surrounding area, like the "Jhanke Ship Yard Hill," the "Magical Springs Pavilion," the "Music Walk" and the "Madisonville Lighthouse," offer plenty of activities for the whole family. The presentation of the area's local history and culture creates both learning and play opportunities that are distinctive and memorableThe play experience of the playground is diverse and extraordinarily different than the norm in the area. A playground appropriate for children of all ages and abilities, it provides active and passive recreation opportunities and was sited to be along the park's primary walking path. The design incorporated custom, subterranean tunnels from the "water level" up into the pilothouse of the centerpiece, the wooden boat that sits atop the shipyard hill. Custom slides provide a quick trip down, either above or below, the symbolic water level. The Jacobs ladder allows kids to pretend to be pirates that are boarding the ship from below. Once they reach the top, they can roll down the face of the swell at the ships bow. These custom pieces were collaborations between the designers, playground, and safety-surfacing manufacturers, adapting catalogue components to match the design language as well as insuring that safety concerns were completely addressed. The "Three rivers" paths meander through the pine forest and cypress/tupelo swamps, on its way to the lake; passing swings, sand play islands and gathering pavilions, including the St. Tammany pavilion, inspired by the 19th century natural springs pavilion, complete with its magic waters fountain. The musical instruments were grouped in a common area to allow for parents and kids to have their own impromptu "jam session", as has been done in the jazz and blues clubs of the region for over a century.The thematic approach, along with ample play equipment and splash pad components seamlessly integrated together, provide a superior environment for public recreation.
As seen in LASN magazine, November 2018.
Making Acadiana Playful
From the American South to the Southern Hemisphere
An Inclusive Play Environment
Accessibility and Imagination
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