Playground Design Library

The Figure Eight

Deep and broad spaces are great. With enough space for a double loop of pathways, changing topography, and eight or more distinct areas, this playground can offer something for every child at every stage of development covering gross motor, creative, dramatic, sensory and musical themes.

The Bowling Alley

Long and narrow sites are always a challenge for a natural playground. This design tackles the problem by adding a single looped pathway through the centre that separates the space into five areas; sand, music, curriculum delivery, dramatic/creative and quiet green space.

The Grand Loop

A smaller rectangle will allow for a single grand loop around a central hill slide. This pushes sand play and music to two corners with planters and curriculum areas tucked next to the building. The central berm also provides an excellent slope for a simple log amphitheatre.

The Single Loop Rectangle

In this design, the hillslide is pushed to the low corner allowing the hill to flow out into the playground. The five activity centres include wacky posts, sand, activity tables, music, raised planters, and boulders. These areas are separated by the arterial paths that lead from the main loop.

The Split Square

If you have toddlers and preschoolers in the same space, this might be the one for you. A shared sandbox, a patch of grass for the little ones, a deck and wacky posts for the preschoolers and music for all, this playground tries to strike the balance between the needs of both age groups.

Triple Loop Rectangle

Another big broad space with lots to do… Three loops of pathways allow for eight separate spaces and a wide range of play options. This space can also be divided into two sections for different age groups or one grand playground allowing for quiet gathering to full gross motor activities.