Upon first visiting the site, we found a playground with limited activities and drainage issues. The existing fiber mulch base created a damp, dirty environment for the children. Initial conversations with the client tasked us with evolving the space into a multi activity playground while working with their ~$120K budget. After the first round of design, it was over budget, so we adjusted some hard surfaces to be concrete, changed a pergola to a shade sail, and found volunteers to paint, do removals, and base excavation. Much of the existing equipment was able to be moved, however the main piece of the playground was not. The new design had to be created around that structure and meet certain state fall zone requirements. We also wanted to create an area where the children could ride their bikes etc. within the safety of the main play area. This translated to a concrete meandering path throughout the space in the design. To make the path multifunctional and appealing to kids of all ages while still being budget conscious, our team worked with volunteers and donated a portion of the work living our "Give Back" company culture Fundamental. Other aspects included were a small basketball court, the original playset, several multifunctional ball playing areas, a seat wall, a sandbox & four square, both covered by shade sales, and a funnel ball structure. For playing spaces, drainage and cleanliness was a huge priority so the kids would no longer be playing in waterlogged mulch. To accomplish this, we used SYNAugustine X47 Turf, a material with an antimicrobial, thermal shield, and anti-static component built in. The porous material of the turf allowed us to include 12-18" of clear stone underneath to act as a water detention pond that will hold the water until it runs out into a nearby ditch. Materials required to install the turf were also chosen carefully with the nailer board being a prime example as it's made from recycled turf and able to flow with the racetrack layout. Due to the arrangement of the design, getting the turf installed was no normal job. Our teams worked like artists using super seams to hide the transition from one role of turf to the next. The best part of this project was seeing the excitement on the kids faces every day and, whenever safe, letting them interact with the crews. Not only did the kids have a blast making frequent trips outside to check on the progress of the playground, but those little trips made for a lot of memorable days on the site for the crews, as well. From a damp and messy playground to a clean, safe, and visually pleasing layout, the company is extremely grateful for everyone along the way who made this project so meaningful and impactful.

 

The upcoming Playgrounds Issue of Landscape Architect and Specifier News saw many firms submit their projects for feature consideration. This project was not chosen for a Feature in the issue, but we at LandscapeArchitect.com thought the project deserved to be showcased online . . .

To have your project featured in LASN or on LandscapeArchitect.com please email aschmok@landscapearchitect.com

For more information about submitting a project, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/research/editorial/editorial-submissions.php