The Playgrounds Issue of Landscape Architect and Specifier News saw many firms submit their projects for feature consideration. Among several great projects, we at LandscapeArchitect.com thought Mission Hill Playground deserved to be showcased online.

Mission Hill Playground sits at the heart of Boston's Mission Hill neighborhood and is one of only three public open spaces in this densely populated area. As part of an Environmental Justice Neighborhood, the park plays a vital role in providing equitable access to outdoor recreation.

The renovation project aimed to transform the existing playground into a flexible, multi-use space that reflects community needs. With 31 feet of elevation change across the site, improving accessibility was a key goal. The updated design includes an accessible route and new features that serve a broad range of users.

 

The playground's roots trace back to the early 1900s, when residents petitioned for land to be acquired for recreation. Landscape architect Arthur Shurtleff sketched the first layout in 1913, followed by a site plan from the Olmsted Brothers in 1915, establishing the park's three-tiered structure. Over the next century, it evolved with changing play trends.

Design efforts began during the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring a shift to virtual community engagement. In partnership with the Mission Hill Health Movement, local outreach encouraged participation in virtual meetings. Students from nearby middle schools also shared their ideas, highlighting the need for adaptable spaces. The community prioritized flexible amenities like a multi-use court and splash pad that could double as a stage.

Previously, the playground was divided into isolated play areas. A unifying ground mural now ties the space together, blending sport and play elements. A thoughtful color study guided the selection of pavement paints that reduced surface heat and coordinated with the site's furnishings.

To connect the playground to the upper terrace, a new amphitheater was built into the grade, with a splash pad at its base that transforms into a performance space. Original Olmsted-era stone walls were preserved and updated to meet modern safety standards.

The revitalized Mission Hill Playground now offers a dynamic, inclusive environment that blends history with contemporary design. Its modular layout supports diverse activities and users-demonstrated on opening day when the court hosted everything from speeches to crafts to basketball.

To see more Playgrounds projects, go to https://landscapearchitect.com/landscape-articles/lasns-playgrounds-issue-34717#article1
To have your project featured in LASN or on LandscapeArchitect.com please email editorial@landscapearchitect.com
For more information about submitting a project, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/research/editorial/editorial-submissions.php