Play Areas / Playscapes

A play area in a residential garden is an outdoor space designed for children. In a small garden the play area can become the focal point, such as in the center of a courtyard. In larger landscapes, the playground itself may be partially screened or fenced from the rest of the garden, while remaining visible from inside the home to allow for parental guidance. 

EQUIPMENT AND MULCH: The main objective is to create a safe environment in a pleasing setting, where children want to play and have fun. Modern play structures are robust, durable and frequently safer than their predecessors. They are often manufactured from recycled materials. Mulch materials such as rubber mulch, with its high elasticity, break falls and increase safety. However, rubber mulch may be harmful to some plants. Sof’Fall Engineered Wood Fiber also provides a long-lasting and slip-resistant surface, and other products such as SafeGrass Rubber Play Mats are available.

PLANTINGS around a play area need to be robust and resilient. Children’s allergies, e.g. to bees, and avoidance of prickly plants have to be a consideration when selecting plants. Fragrance, color, and the appropriate plants can attract wildlife such as butterflies or hummingbirds. They will add extra interest to the garden and enhance the children’s experience with nature.

PLAYSCAPE:  In a natural play area, or playscape, materials and features blend with nature. Native or naturalistic vegetation and creative landforms are combined to create an environment that is fascinating and challenging to children. Playscapes are designed and built to look and feel like a natural setting, allowing children to learn about nature through play and interaction.

Courtyard and Play Area, Secure Storage

This courtyard garden is located close to the entrance of a tidy storage company in Hood River, Oregon. The owners wished to create a private space for the manager and his family, including their three small children. The objective was to integrate the play structure into the landscape, and to create a retreat from storage patrons and the busy road to the south. An asphalt driveway and compacted soil had to be removed prior to garden creation. Bermed plantings lend privacy and large retaining boulders offer extra seating.

(Please click image for an enlarged view)

Secure Storage, courtyard garden design

Secure Storage, courtyard garden design

 BEFORE PHOTOS
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East-facing view, February 2006. The asphalt area was subsequently  removed and folded into the garden.

East-facing view, February 2006. The asphalt area was subsequently removed and folded into the garden.

The future garden space at Secure Storage prior to construction, looking west, February 2006

The future garden space at Secure Storage prior to construction, looking west, February 2006

 AFTER PHOTOS
(Please click image for an enlarged view)

The finished courtyard and play area in October of 2008. The bermed south plantings are filling in quickly and provide screening from the busy road.

The finished courtyard and play area in October of 2008. The bermed south plantings are filling in quickly and provide screening from the busy road.

Cheerful bulbs and perennials in the east front bed outside the courtyard, April 2009

Cheerful bulbs and perennials in the east front bed outside the courtyard, April 2009

Happily swinging in the garden, April 2009

Happily swinging in the garden, April 2009

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